Current Approach to The Child with Pica

Abstract

Pica is an eating disorder that is characterized by the ingesting of non-food substances. Although pica is common in young children, it is an overlooked condition. Although the etiology of pica is not known for certain, some hypotheses are emphasized. The prevalence of pica varies according to societies. Pica is a clinical diagnosis based on the The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V diagnostic criteria. In children, pica management can be achieved with a multidisciplinary approach. It should be acted on together with child psychiatry. Patient and family education are important. If there are nutritional deficiencies such as iron or zinc deficiency, it should be replaced. This review provides important information about the current approach to the child with pica. It will also shed light on the evaluation of children with a history of pica.