PICA syndrome, a food disorder like no other!

Some children, adults and even animals frequently consume non -nutritive substances or objects, for example metal, paper or sand. Very large, PICA syndrome is generally without gravity but sometimes, can still bring the vital prognosis into play.

Voluntary, compulsive and persistent consumption – Pica syndrome, food disorder like

PICA (or PICA) syndrome is known since Antiquity. Rome imported clay tablets from certain Greek islands to serve as counter-poison, treat pregnant women and facilitate childbirth. Throughout history until today. the example of Pica are very numerous and concerns a wide range of objects and types of people. In addition, PICA syndrome is generally rather well documented. This is taught in the MSD manual and was the subject of a descriptive study conducted in France in 2003.

Here is a question of a voluntary consumptioncompulsive – and above all persistent – of non -nutritious objects. The list of these objects. substances is very pica syndrome, food disorder like long, here are some examples: earth, chalk, paper, metal, plastic, sand, ash, dust etc. In addition, this Eating disorder may concern young children (over two years), adults including third age or animals.

Unsurprisingly. the most common and older cases relating to geophagythat is to say the consumption of land (mud, clay), often for cultural or religious reasons. However, this practice can also be associated with health, although no scientific evidence to date. In 2024, a health trend on Tiktok praised his merits, despite the controversy.

Causes still unknown

The diagnosis is simple, requiring pica syndrome, food disorder like a clinical examination as well as questions relating to patient consumption habits. Nevertheless, certain analyzes can be practiced in order to verify the presence of possible complications. Doctors may decide to check the general nutritional condition. the possible presence of symptoms of obstruction of the digestive tract or other drifts. It must be said that certain objects can remain Stuck in the throat. esophagusbe toxic (heavy metals) and cause dental complications, among others.

You should know that the PICA factors are still unknown, although several hypotheses exist. According to some researchers. syndrome can be In connection with nutritional imbalanceshave genetic causes or, certain psychological disorders such as stress and anxiety. However, these may be vitamin or mineral deficiencies or certain environmental factors, for example difficult access to food.