A case control study: Clinical profile and associated factors of PICA in children attending a tertiary care hospital of Piparia, Gujarat

Dr. Amit Jain

Volume : IX, Issue : V, May - 2020

A case control study: Clinical profile and associated factors of PICA in children attending a tertiary care hospital of Piparia, Gujarat

Dr. Amit Jain

Abstract :

Background: There are various hypotheses regarding the persistence of pica, including hunger, psychopathology, cultural beliefs, and micronutrient deficiencies. Pica can cause accidental poisons, ulcerations, recurrent chest infections, anemia, and parasitic infestation etc. Method: This case control study was conducted in Dhiraj Hospital Gujarat among 50 children with PICA and 50 children without PICA. The socio-demographic details was collected in a predefined questionnaire. Blood sample was collected for serum levels of iron, zinc and calcium. Results: Onset of pica was during 13 to 24 months. Most common substance was clay (76.0%). Mothers� education and family history were significantly associated with development of pica. Serum iron, zinc and calcium were significantly lower in children with pica than control group. Conclusions: Family history of pica, education of mothers are major contributing factors for pica. Serum Iron, zinc and calcium were lower in children with pica.