5/17/2023 0 Comments Pica diagnosis6 Children with pica may ingest substances rich in the nutrients in which they are deficient. A recent meta-analysis confirmed the association between anaemia, low plasma zinc levels and pica. Proposed mechanisms range from psychosocial to biochemical.Īn association between pica and micronutrient deficiencies, including iron, calcium and zinc has been well described. The aetiology of pica is poorly understood and is probably multifactorial. 3 Although often described as pica in the literature, these practices may actually be deemed to be socially normative practice and therefore do not fit the diagnostic criteria outlined in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V). Geophagia, including the ingestion of kaolin (white clay), is seen in sections of the African-American population in the USA and is common practice in parts of Africa. Ingestion of non-food substances may also be associated with cultural practices. ![]() Pica can be classified according to the particular substance ingested. If the behaviour occurs within the context of another mental disorder or medical condition, it is sufficiently severe to warrant independent clinical attention. The eating behaviour is not part of a culturally supported or socially normative practice. The eating of such substances is inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual. The eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances is persistent over a period of at least 1 month. ![]() Box 1 DSM-V ( The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition) criteria for the diagnosis of pica
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