Tomatophagia Caused by Iron Deficiency Anaemia: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Aug 28;16(8):e67993. doi: 10.7759/cureus.67993. eCollection 2024 Aug.

Abstract

Iron deficiency anaemia is a common condition that can present with a variety of symptoms, including pica, which is an uncommon but notable manifestation. Pica involves the craving and consumption of non-nutritive substances and can sometimes lead to unusual dietary habits. We report an unusual case of tomatophagia, a rare form of pica, associated with iron deficiency anaemia. A Caucasian female in her forties was referred to the hospital with severe microcytic anaemia and a two-year history of excessive cherry tomato consumption. She exhibited a notably yellowish discolouration of her skin. Based on the history and clinical findings, the diagnosis of iron deficiency anaemia and carotenemia was made. The patient's condition improved significantly following a blood transfusion and treatment with ferric carboxymaltose (ferinject).

Keywords: carotenaemia; iron deficiency anaemia; iron deficiency anemia (ida); pica disorder; tomatophagia; yellowish skin.

Publication types

  • Case Reports