Highlights & Basics
- Patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) typically have low body weight, intense fear of gaining weight, and a body image disturbance.
- While more often detected in women, cases of AN in young men may be under-represented.
- Weight restoration with refeeding techniques is essential for prevention of sequelae, such as heart failure, fertility problems, and osteoporosis.
- Patients with AN are often identified through family referral, pediatric monitoring of weight during routine physical exam, and the patient's physical complaints.
- Early intervention is key in order to prevent long-term psychiatric and physical complications of AN.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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Royal College of Psychiatrists. Medical emergencies in eating disorders (MEED): guidance on recognition and management. May 2022 [internet publication].[Full Text]
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Mitchell JE, Peterson CB. Anorexia nervosa. N Engl J Med. 2020 Apr 2;382(14):1343-51.[Abstract]
Yager J, Andersen AE. Clinical practice. Anorexia nervosa. N Engl J Med. 2005 Oct 6;353(14):1481-8.[Abstract]
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