Tests that may be needed to diagnose Pica include:
- Lab tests to check levels of iron, lead, and zinc
- Basic metabolic panel to check for imbalances in body chemistry, such as low potassium levels
- Imaging studies, such as abdominal x-rays, barium tests, and endoscopy, to assess abdominal discomfort and visualize the gastrointestinal tract
- Repeated imaging tests to confirm that the ingested substance has passed through the system