A case of occult lead poisoning during pregnancy resultant from ingestion of shards of Mexican pottery is presented. Pica, although not uncommon in certain cultures, may not be readily admitted to by patients. This poisoning resulted from the practice of pica in the face of iron deficiency and pregnancy in a young Mexican–American mother. Intentional ingestion of fired, lead-glazed pottery has not been heretofore described as a manifestation of pica or cause of lead poisoning. However, this practice must be considered, especially in Hispanic mothers.
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