Pica is an eating disorder that is characterized by the chronic craving and consumption of nonfood items such as dirt, clay, paint chips, chalk, cornstarch, baking soda, coffee grounds, cigarette butts or ashes and feces.

Pica is more common in people with developmental disabilities (e.g., autism, mental retardation), children between the ages of 18 months and 2 years and pregnant women. Even though infants younger than 2 years may try to eat nonfood items, it is not generally considered abnormal behavior for that age. In most cases, toddlers spontaneously outgrow the disorder and pica in pregnant women usually resolves after giving birth.

In addition, pica has also been observed in underdeveloped countries where there is widespread poverty, especially among some societies where the consumption of nonfood items (e.g., certain types of soil) is a culturally accepted practice.

Pica can result in serious health complications including lead poisoning (from eating paint chips in older buildings with lead-based paint), bowel problems, intestinal obstruction or perforation, dental and/or gum injury, parasitic infections and malnutrition. In addition, this eating disorder may be life-threatening if a patient consumes a toxic or lethal substance. Pregnant women with the disorder may cause harm to the fetus if hazardous substances are consumed or if nutritional deficiencies occur.

The cause of pica is unknown, although medical experts believe that certain conditions and situations may contribute to its development. Some of these conditions may include poverty, nutritional deficiencies and/or malnutrition, and a history of eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa). 

Individuals with pica may also have other types of behavioral or emotional health disorders including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia.

Pica is usually diagnosed after a physical examination conducted by a physician, which includes a medical history. Patients may also be referred to a psychologist or other mental health professional for an evaluation.

Due to the complex nature of eating disorders, pica usually requires a comprehensive treatment plan including medical care and monitoring of health complications (e.g., stomach problems), psychotherapy (e.g., behavior therapy) and dental care to treat any tooth or gum injuries that may result from prolonged eating of nonfood substances.