Open Journal of Psychiatry & Allied Sciences
Open Access
  • Year: 2022
  • Volume: 13
  • Issue: 1

Entomophagy and coprophagy in alcohol use disorder: A rare psychopathology

Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, University of Health Sciences, Rohtak, Haryana, India

*Correspondence: Dr. Aparna Goyal, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, University of Health Sciences, Rohtak-124001, Haryana, India, piku0908@gmail.com

Online published on 19 April, 2023.

Abstract

Behavioural presentations can vary in psychiatric disorders. Entomophagy, i.e. insect eating and coprophagy, i.e. eating of faeces are not only socially inept but also uncommon. These are also considered a variant of pica. The variations in psychopathology, especially the uncommon presentations are worth exploring. Here, we discussed a case with presentation of entomophagia and coprophagia along with alcohol dependence. Possible aetiological hypotheses were considered like pica, oral fixation, thiamine deficiency, and role of amygdala. This case report highlights the need to pursue and explore the aetiological reasons, so as to improve management strategies.

Keywords

Abnormal eating behaviours, Substance use, Psychology