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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How Can A Mental Disorder In A Child Be Diagnosed?

I have a step grandchild ( 5 year old male) who chews on everything. He has chewed holes in pool noodles, and goggle straps, etc. I even caught him licking the metal handrails at the steps to the pool. I think it s more than his acting out. I think he has a mental disorder, but I don t know what it s called or how to diagnose and treat it. I d like to gather information for my daughter and her new husband so they can address this.
Thu, 16 Aug 2018
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General Surgeon,  's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

More than mental disorder it might be something called “pica”. As you said developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorders can also present like this. Do a blood routine test and check whether his hemoglobin level is low or not. Low hemoglobin and iron can cause pica and it will resolve once the iron is supplemented. You can consult a pediatrician for expert opinion.

Wishing you good health.

Thanks.
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How Can A Mental Disorder In A Child Be Diagnosed?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. More than mental disorder it might be something called “pica”. As you said developmental disorders like autism spectrum disorders can also present like this. Do a blood routine test and check whether his hemoglobin level is low or not. Low hemoglobin and iron can cause pica and it will resolve once the iron is supplemented. You can consult a pediatrician for expert opinion. Wishing you good health. Thanks.