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Pica in children with sickle cell disease: two case reports

Erin T O'Callaghan1, Jeffrey I Gold

  • 1California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University, Los Angeles, Alhambra, CA, USA. eocallaghan@alliant.edu

Journal of Pediatric Nursing
|August 25, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Children with sickle cell disease (SCD) have a higher risk of pica, a condition that can lead to serious medical, nutritional, and developmental issues. This study examines two cases to highlight potential complications and clinical implications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Hematology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a genetic blood disorder requiring comprehensive care.
  • Pica, the compulsive consumption of non-food items, is a recognized comorbidity in children with SCD.
  • This comorbidity poses risks for medical, nutritional, and neurodevelopmental health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the medical, nutritional, and psychosocial functioning in two children with SCD and pica.
  • To illustrate the potential complications and correlates of SCD with pica.
  • To discuss the clinical implications of managing pica in children with SCD.

Main Methods:

  • Case study approach detailing the experiences of two children with SCD and pica.
  • Assessment of medical, nutritional, and psychosocial parameters.
  • Review of clinical data and relevant literature.

Main Results:

  • Pica in children with SCD can manifest with diverse medical and nutritional consequences.
  • Psychosocial factors may be associated with the presence and severity of pica.
  • The cases highlight the complexity of managing this comorbidity.

Conclusions:

  • Pica is a significant concern in pediatric SCD, necessitating thorough evaluation and management.
  • Integrated care addressing medical, nutritional, and psychosocial aspects is crucial.
  • Further research is warranted to understand the pathophysiology and optimize treatment strategies for pica in SCD.

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