A strange type of Pica

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Behavioral Science
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Pica is a common eating disorder involving consumption of non-food items, frequently observed in children and pregnant women.
• Sponge pica is an exceptionally rare subtype of pica.
• This case highlights a rare presentation of pica in a pediatric patient.

Observation:

• A 5-year-old Omani girl presented with a two-year history of sponge pica.
• She exhibited symptoms of abdominal pain, anemia, and elevated liver enzymes.
• The patient demonstrated normal intelligence and no signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Findings:

• Clinical and laboratory investigations revealed anemia and hepatic enzyme abnormalities.
• Treatment with oral iron therapy resulted in complete clinical and biochemical recovery.
• The patient experienced improved appetite and weight gain post-treatment.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare forms of pica.
• Early diagnosis and intervention, including nutritional support like iron therapy, are crucial for preventing complications.
• Increased awareness among healthcare providers can lead to timely treatment and improved patient outcomes for pica.