Sigmoid Lithobezoar associated with iron deficiency anaemia: a rare case report

TL;DR

A 6-year-old boy with iron deficiency anemia and a rare case of sigmoid lithobezoar due to pica behavior is reported, highlighting the need for iron screening in similar pediatric cases.

Contribution

This case report emphasizes the importance of iron deficiency screening in pediatric patients presenting with lithobezoars.

Findings

The patient's gastrointestinal obstruction was caused by ingested brick dust and soil.

Manual extraction of the lithobezoar was required, followed by oral iron supplementation.

The case suggests a potential link between pica behavior and iron deficiency anemia.

Abstract

In this case study, we describe the presentation of a 6-year-old male patient afflicted with iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) who manifested gastrointestinal obstruction attributable to the habitual ingestion of brick dust and soil, a characteristic behaviour associated with pica. The obstructive material, resembling bricks in consistency, necessitated manual extraction from the patient's anus. Subsequently, the patient received oral iron supplementation as part of the therapeutic regimen. While the causative relationship between pica and IDA remains subject to ongoing debate within the scientific community, our findings underscore the importance of implementing routine screening protocols for iron deficiency in the evaluation of lithobezoar cases among paediatric populations.

Figures