Marfan syndrome (MFS) is the autosomal dominant-inherited multisystem connective-tissue disorder, with a reported incidence of 1 in 10,000 individuals and equal distribution in both genders. The main clinical manifestation of this disorder consists of an exaggerated length of the upper and lower limbs, hyperlaxity, scoliosis, alterations in the cardiovascular and pulmonary systems, and atypical bone overgrowth. Orofacial manifestations such as high-arched palate, hypodontia, long narrow teeth, bifid uvula, mandibular prognathism, and temporomandibular disorders are also common. Early diagnosis of MFS is essential to prevent the cardiovascular complications and treatment of orofacial manifestations, thus to increase the quality of life of the patient.
"PICA" means perverted appetite for substances not fit as food or of no nutritional value such as, bricks, clay, soil, ice, laundry starch, etc. The word ''PICA'' is derived from Latin word for Magpie, a species of bird that feeds on whatever it encounters. ''PICA'' has been observed in ethnic groups worldwide in primitive and modern cultures, in both sexes and in all age groups. The case presented here reports a 30 year old female patient who had craving for ingestion of gravel and brick fragments since the age of 13 years. Iron deficiency anemia was found after complete blood count and iron studies. The diagnosis of "PICA" requires that the patient is persistently eating non-food substances for at least 1 month and such behavior is appropriate for the child's stage of development.
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