Paper pica: an unusual cause of colonic ischemia

J Gastrointest Surg. 2010 Jun;14(6):1065-6. doi: 10.1007/s11605-009-1092-3. Epub 2009 Nov 21.

Abstract

Introduction: Pica as an eating disorder is uncommonly associated with surgical complications. Paper as the consumed substance has been previously reported twice in the literature.

Discussion: We present a case of bowel obstruction and ischemia secondary to paper pica. The pathophysiology, histology, and characteristics of this entity are presented, and emphasis is placed on clinical suspicion in patients with psychiatric history.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Colectomy
  • Colitis, Ischemic / etiology*
  • Colitis, Ischemic / surgery
  • Colon / blood supply
  • Colon / pathology
  • Colon / surgery*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Obstruction / etiology*
  • Intestinal Obstruction / surgery
  • Ischemia / etiology*
  • Ischemia / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Necrosis
  • Paper*
  • Pica / complications*