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Pediatrics6 papers

Pica of infancy and childhood

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Pica is an eating disorder characterized by the consumption of non-nutritive substances such as dirt, clay, or paper, predominantly observed in children under the age of six, though it can persist into adolescence and adulthood 1. It often reflects underlying nutritional deficiencies, developmental delays, or psychological stressors 1.

Diagnosis

  • Key Diagnostic Criteria: Persistent consumption of non-food substances for more than one month 1.
  • Recommended Tests: Nutritional assessments, developmental evaluations, and psychological screening 1.
  • Grading: Not typically graded but often categorized based on severity and duration 1.

    • Management

  • First-Line Treatments: Address underlying nutritional deficiencies, provide behavioral interventions, and ensure a safe environment 1.
  • Adjunctive Treatments: Psychosocial support, family counseling, and in severe cases, psychiatric evaluation 1.
  • Specific Interventions: No specific drug classes or doses are universally recommended for pica management 1.

    • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Common in young children; focus on developmental and nutritional support 1.
  • Comorbidities: Management should consider coexisting conditions like iron deficiency anemia or developmental disorders 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Conduct thorough nutritional and developmental assessments to identify underlying causes of pica (Evidence: Moderate 1).
  • Implement behavioral strategies and environmental modifications to prevent ingestion of non-nutritive substances (Evidence: Expert opinion 1).
  • Provide psychosocial support and family counseling to address psychological factors contributing to pica behaviors (Evidence: Moderate 1).

    • References

    1 Saltzman HM. Lighting the Path. Teaching and learning in medicine 2025. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Lighting the Path. — Saltzman HM Teaching and learning in medicine (2025)
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