
It was identified that the PB were more present in women (69%) and in Afroamericans (65-86%) and in contrast to what is reported a clinical context did not differ statistically in the biological and clinical variables. Four studies were described based on the PRISMA recommendations, which focused on the evaluation of the prevalence of PB and their relationship with sociodemographic, nutritional, metabolic and quality of life variables, evaluating by means of self-report 668 patients, of whom 164 (24.5%) met criteria for PB. The aim of this work was to perform a systematic review for the identification and description of empirical studies on PB in patients with CKD.

Pica behaviors (PB) are defined as the persistent intake of non-food substances, this behavior that has been identified in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), mainly associated with metabolic alterations derived from the disease. Our findings challenge the cause–effect relation between micronutrient deficiency and pica and prompts further research in the non-adaptive theories of this poorly understood clinical entity. Based on temporal relationship, we propose that there might be an association between copper supplementation and pica, not related to its plasma levels.Īs far as we know, this is the first case report in the literature with such a long-term follow-up of pica treatment. One week after, pica behaviours reoccurred, with further remission with renewed copper treatment. After 2-year remission, the patient was discontinued on oral copper. These behaviours ceased with copper supplementation. A review was conducted using PubMed database.Ī 59-year-old patient, diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, presented with sideroblastic anaemia secondary to zinc-induced copper deficiency in the context of pica. The authors present a case report of pica treated with copper supplementation, with further diagnostic and treatment considerations.Ĭlinical records and interviews were used.

Its aetiology is still unknown, as its prevalence and optimal treatment, which seem to vary with patients’ characteristics and the specific behaviours involved. Pica is defined as a feeding and eating disorder where there is consumption of nonnutritive substances not consistent with cultural practices or social norms.
