Related Experiment Videos
Pica and the elephant's ear.
Helen Mihailidou1, Emmanouil Galanakis, Penelope Paspalaki
1Department of Pediatrics, University General Hospital, Heraklion, Crete, Greece. miheni@med.uoc.gr
Journal of Child Neurology
|February 15, 2003
Summary
A 2-year-old boy with pica experienced neurological symptoms after ingesting a poisonous plant. Treatment for iron deficiency anemia resolved the pica and neurological issues, highlighting the link between pica, poisoning, and neurological symptoms in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Deficiencies
Background:
- Pica, the consumption of non-food items, is often linked to nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency anemia.
- Accidental ingestion of toxic substances can lead to various health complications in children.
- Neurological symptoms in young children can be challenging to diagnose and may indicate underlying systemic issues.
Observation:
- A 2-year-old boy presented with acute neurological symptoms including sialorrhea, dysarthria, dysphagia, and repetitive swallowing.
- The child had a history of pica and had recently ingested a leaf from Colocasia esculenta (elephant's ear), a known poisonous plant.
- A brief episode of fixed gaze was also noted, raising concerns for potential neurotoxicity.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia, a common comorbidity with pica.
- Neurological manifestations resolved following iron supplementation and the cessation of pica.
- The clinical presentation suggests a possible link between Colocasia esculenta ingestion, iron deficiency anemia, and the observed neurological symptoms.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering pica and potential toxic ingestions in the differential diagnosis of acute neurological changes in children.
- Early identification and management of iron deficiency anemia are crucial for resolving pica-related behaviors and associated symptoms.
- Awareness of poisonous houseplants like Colocasia esculenta is vital for preventing accidental pediatric poisonings and subsequent neurological complications.