How is pica treated?
Children with pica should be referred to a doctor for correct diagnosis and prompt treatment. The treatment will depend on the cause of the behavior. If the craving is related to deficiency of a mineral such as iron, treatment will involve iron replacement. Other cases of pica may require the involvement of a social worker or psychologist who can assist in examining the home environment and provide behavior-modification therapy and psychological treatment. Methods to reduce or eliminate access to the pica substance should also be suggested.
