A Case Report on Pica:A Rare Pregnancy Related Complication

Pica is the term used to describe the intense craving for and eating of non-food items, such as soil, clay, laundry starch, ice, ashes, plaster, paint chips, and coffee grounds. Pica which comes from the Latin word for magpie, a bird known for eating almost anything is a worldwide phenomenon and seems to be more common during pregnancy. No one knows what causes these unusual cravings, but a combination of biochemical, psychological, and cultural factors may be at work. In some studies, pica has been linked to iron deficiency, even though none of the craved items contain a significant amount of iron. The Present case report on Mrs. Gannga Bhavani has a similar kind of pica i.e., eating of raw rice problem which was noticed in the urban community setting in Guntur. The client and her family were taken to study the case in detail. One the examination the client was noticed having severe problem with associated complications. Client was counseled and referred to NRI general hospital for further treatment.