An unusual case of multiple intestinal perforations secondary to pica

Abstract

Habitual ingestion of non-nutritive substances is the characteristic feature of a medical condition known as pica. It is usually associated with nutritional deficiency state, mental illness and at times with pregnancy. Most of the ingested foreign bodies pass through the digestive tract without causing complications however in about 1% cases, it can result in fatal complications such as intoxication, gastrointestinal perforation etc. Here we report a case of multiple intestinal perforations in a 28 year old patient secondary to his psychiatric illness Pica. The aim of this case report is to demonstrate its unusual presentation and to discuss the management of this rare case.