The eating behavior rating scale (EBRS): A measure of eating pathology in anorexia nervosa

The aims of this study were to develop an Eating Behavior Rating Scale (EBRS) for patients with anorexia nervosa, to quantify abnormalities of eating behavior in these patients, and to determine whether such behavior improves with inpatient management. Fifteen patients hospitalized with anorexia nervosa and 10 university students participated in the study. The eating behavior of the anorexia nervosa patients was significantly worse than that of the university students as measured by the EBRS. Although there was a significant improvement in the eating behavior of the anorexia nervosa patients during refeeding, it remained significantly worse than the students. Our findings also suggested that the degree of eating behavior pathology may be independent of the patients' attitudes to food and weight as well as other psychological variables assessed by the Eating Disorders Inventory.     

Pathologic fear conditioning and anorexia nervosa: on the search for novel paradigms

Although eating disorders have been the focus of an unprecedented explosion of clinical interest in recent years, the etiology of anorexia nervosa remains elusive. It is hypothesized that an underlying causative mechanism involves a propensity to extreme fear conditioning and greater than normal resistance to its extinction. Knowledge accrued from recent behavioral, genetic, and neuroanatomic research on anxiety may yield further insight into the pathogenesis of anorexia nervosa, which can be subjected to experimental validation using objective measures of classical fear conditioning and functional neuroimaging of brain structures mediating fear behavior.     

Premorbid onset of psychopathology in long-term recovered anorexia nervosa

It is recognized that patients with anorexia nervosa commonly have other psychiatric illnesses. No study, to our knowledge, has determined whether these other psychiatric disorders occur prior to the age of onset of anorexia nervosa. We obtained a retrospective history from 24 subjects who were long term (more than 1 year) recovered from anorexia nervosa. We found that 58% reported that they had the onset of one or more childhood anxiety disorder diagnoses at the age of 10 ± 5 years old. This was 5 years before the mean age of onset of anorexia nervosa. The onset of depression was about 1 year before the onset of anorexia nervosa in about one half the subjects. Alcohol and substance abuse/dependency tended to occur after the onset of anorexia nervosa and only occurred in anorexic subjects who binged and/or purged. The early and common onset of childhood anxiety disorders in a substantial percentage of anorexics raises the possibility that childhood anxiety disorders herald the first behavioral expression of a biologic vulnerability in some subjects who develop anorexia nervosa. © 1995 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

"Anorexia saved my life": coincidental anorexia nervosa and cerebral meningioma.

OBJECTIVE: We report on a 13-year-old girl with coincidental occult intracranial tumor and early-onset anorexia nervosa. METHOD: The cerebral meningioma was discovered fortuitously as the result of a research project using SPECT imaging to locate a neurobiological substrate in patients with anorexia nervosa. Without SPECT, the meningioma would have remained undiagnosed until it had become symptomatic. The two conditions appear to have been completely unrelated. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: The case highlights two important points. First, intracranial pathology should also be considered however certain is the diagnosis of early-onset anorexia nervosa. Second, neuroimaging plays an important part in diagnosing early-onset anorexia nervosa, both from a clinical and a research prospective.     

Interpersonal psychotherapy for anorexia nervosa

OBJECTIVE: This paper outlines the rationale for treating individuals with anorexia nervosa using interpersonal psychotherapy. METHOD: We review theoretical, empirical, and psychotherapy literature relating to interpersonal functioning in anorexia nervosa. RESULTS: Etiological theories emphasize interpersonal and family dysfunction in the development of anorexia nervosa. Research supports the notion that families of individuals with anorexia nervosa have dysfunctional patterns of communication. The history of treatment for anorexia nervosa emphasizes the need for resolution of interpersonal dysfunction, within the traditions of psychodynamic, family therapy, and multidimensional therapies. DISCUSSION: Interpersonal psychotherapy is a time-limited psychotherapy based on the notion that regardless of etiology, interpersonal relationships are intertwined with symptomatology. The goals of the therapy are to improve interpersonal functioning and thereby decrease symptomatology. Factors identified as important in the development of anorexia nervosa are readily conceptualized within the interpersonal psychotherapy problem areas of grief, interpersonal disputes, interpersonal deficits, and role transitions.     

Hospital treatment of anorexia nervosa: A 25 year retrospective study form 1958 to 1982

In order to characterize changes in the presenting symptomatology and treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN), the hospital charts of 76 anorexia nervosa patients were reviewed from three time periods: (1) 1958-1962, (II) 1968-1972, and (III) 1978-1982. In period 1, 92% of the patients were admitted to a medicine service, whereas in period III, 92% were admitted to psychiatry. Age of onset, percent mean weight for height upon admission, and reported frequencies of laxative use and vomiting showed no statistical differences among the periods. Lenght of hospital stay and weight gained during hospitalization increased significantly during period III, with similar stays occurring for both vomiters and restrictors. Between periods I and III the number of medical diagnostic studies decreased while the frequency of behavioral therapies and use of antidepressant medication in creased. During the past 25 years, theories of etiology and approaches to treatment of anorexia nervosa have become increasingly psychiatric. We postulate that the apparent increasing incidence of AN may partially be attributable to an underdiagnosis of AN by medical services in the past.     

Family versus individual therapy for anorexia: Impact on family conflict

This study evaluated the impact on family relations of behavioral family systems therapy (BFST) versus ego-oriented individual therapy (EOIT) as treatments for adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Twenty-two adolescents meeting DSM-III-R anorexia nervosa criteria were randomly assigned to receive approximately 16 months of either BFST or EOIT along with a common medical and dietary regimen. BFST emphasized parental control over eating, cognitive restructuring, and problem-solving communication training. EOIT emphasized building ego strength, adolescent autonomy, and insight. Measures included body mass index, self-reported general and eating-related conflict, and observed general and eating-related communication. Both treatments produced significant reductions in negative communication and parent-adolescent conflict, with some differences between conditions and between eating and non-eating related conflict measures; the improvements in eating-related conflict were maintained at a 1-year follow-up. The study demonstrated that structured therapies for adolescent anorexia do impact family relations, even when the family is never seen as a unit during the therapy. © 1995 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

Anorexia nervosa “restricters” who purge: Implications for subtyping anorexia nervosa

It has not been clear from earlier studies whether it is binge eating per se or the compensatory behaviors frequently associated with binge eating (i.e., self-induced vomiting and/or laxative abuse) that provide the most relevant marker for subclassifying anorexia nervosa. The current study addressed this question by comparing the clinical and psychological features of three groups of anorexia nervosa patients: “pure restricting” patients who do not binge (by definition) and who also do not purge (AN-R, N = 116); “restricting-purging” patients who engage in purging behavior (AN-RP, N = 74); and anorexia nervosa “bulimics” who binge eat as defined in earlier studies (AN-B, N = 190). While all three groups displayed similar levels of psychological disturbance on many variables, the overall pattern of findings indicates that the AN-RP group displays significantly more psychopathology than the AN-R group and their profile of disturbance is very similar to that observed with the AN-B group. Thus, anorexia nervosa patients who purge, regardless of whether or not they report objective binge episodes, may be meaningfully distinguished from nonpurging patients. These results, combined with the medical risks associated with purging behaviors and the formidable problems associated with the definition of binge eating, support a sub-typing system for anorexia nervosa based on the presence or absence of purging rather than binge eating. © 1993 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     

Obsessive-compulsive neurosis and anorexia nervosa

A large number of anorexia nervosa patients manifest anancastic personality traits or obsessive-compulsive symptoms. The clinical characteristics and psychological data from nine female anorexia nervosa patients, characterized by obsessive-compulsive symptoms during the course of their illness, were compared with the data from sixteen anorexia nervosa patients without obsessive-compulsive features. Patients with obsessive-compulsive symptoms showed higher scores in general psychiatric symptoms and in anorectic behavior. Deficiencies in social adjustment were pronounced. The combination of marked obsessive-compulsive and anorectic behaviors seems to coincide with more severe disturbances and chronicity of the disease. The data from this study, which are consistent with the hypothesis that there is a strong relationship between anorexia nervosa and obsessive- compulsive neurosis, are discussed.     

Cerebrovascular accidents and anorexia nervosa—A case report

A case of bilateral cerebrovascular accidents in a patient with anorexia nervosa is presented. This is the first such case to be reported in the literature. The neurological complications of anorexia nervosa are reviewed. This case highlights the potential seriousness of mitral valve prolapse in anorexia nervosa.     

Personalized networks of eating disorder symptoms predicting eating disorder outcomes and remission

Enhanced cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT-E) is one of the primary evidence-based treatments for adults with eating disorders (EDs). However, up to 50% of individuals do not respond to CBT-E, likely because of the high heterogeneity present even within similar diagnoses. This high heterogeneity, especially in regard to presenting pathology, makes it difficult to develop a treatment based “on averages” and for clinicians to accurately pinpoint which symptoms should be targeted in treatment. As such, new models based at both the group, and individual level, are needed to more accurately refine targets for personalized evidence-based treatments that can lead to full remission. The current study (Expected N = 120 anorexia nervosa, atypical anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa) will build both group and individual longitudinal models of ED behaviors, cognitions, affect, and physiology. We will collect data for 30 days utilizing a mobile application to assess behaviors, cognition, and affect and a sensor wristband that assesses physiology (heart rate, acceleration). We will also collect outcome data at 1- and 6-month follow-ups to assess ED outcomes and remission status. These data will allow for identification of “on average” and “individual” targets that maintain ED pathology and test if these targets predict outcomes, including ED remission.     

"Becoming the real me": recovering from anorexia nervosa

We investigated the process of recovery from anorexia nervosa using grounded theory. Open-ended interviews conducted with 9 women who had recovered from anorexia nervosa revealed that recovery focused on rediscovery and redefinition of the self and included the following: (1) seeing the dangers, (2) inching out of anorexia, (3) tolerating exposure without anorexia, (4) gaining perspective by changing the anorexia mindset, and (5) discovering and reclaiming self as "good enough." The process of recovery described in this study may provide a useful framework for helping women understand their own process of recovery efforts. The findings also support therapies that foster therapeutic alliance, acknowledge readiness for change, and promote a senses of autonomy.     

Fluid restriction in anorexia nervosa: a neglected symptom or new phenomenon?

OBJECTIVE: The deliberate restriction of fluids to control weight is even more dangerous than food restriction since it results in several serious medical complications. However, there has been scant attention given to the anorexia nervosa patient's manipulation of fluids. It is our clinical impression that fluid restriction in this illness is more common than previously thought. METHOD: We summarize the demographic and clinical features of six cases of anorexia nervosa and one case of eating disorder not otherwise specified (ED-NOS) (subthreshold anorexia nervosa), where fluid restriction was a major behavioral problem. We then describe two of the anorexia nervosa cases in more detail. All were treated at a dieting disorders unit affiliated with the University of Sydney. Their preadmission history, psychological and physical status on admission, results of physical investigations, the beginning of the fluid restriction, fluid and food intake throughout treatment, and the resolution of the fluid restriction were assessed. RESULTS: Patterns emerged in the relationship between eating and drinking. In all cases, food restriction was severe prior to the onset of fluid restriction but, notably, fluid intake recommenced prior to food intake. The reasons given by patients for restricting fluid were that it contained calories and that it made them feel full. Most anorexic patients equate feeling full with "feeling fat." Furthermore, they feel fully in control when they restrict fluid as well as food and this produces a strong motivation to maintain the behavior. DISCUSSION: The cases illustrate the insidious nature and serious consequences of fluid restriction and the difficulties managing dieting-disordered patients who undertake it. Careful attention must be given to assessment and clinicians should be aware of fluid restriction as an important aspect of anorexic behavior.     

Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) in anorexia nervosa

Simultaneous glucose, insulin, and gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) responses to meal stimulation were measured in five anorexia nervosa patients, eight bulimia patients with a past history of anorexia nervosa, and twenty-two healthy subjects. Although basal levels of GIP were similar, anorexia nervosa patients had an early and significantly higher (p <.05) mean peak GIP response than controls or bulimics with past anorexia nervosa. Mean peak insulin levels in anorexia nervosa patients did not differ significantly from those of control or bulimia/past anorexia nervosa patients, although anorexia nervosa patients had a nonsignificantly prolonged elevation of serum insulin. Glucose responses were not significantly different among the various groups. The exaggerated CIP response to meal stimulation with no significant difference in insulin levels suggests that the usual association between insulin and GIP is altered in anorexia nervosa. This is apparently a state-dependent abnormality since GIP responses in bulimia patients with a history of anorexia nervosa do not differ from healthy subjects. Altered GIP responses may contribute to the gastric hypomotility and acid secretion changes previously reported in low-weight anorexia nervosa patients.     

Age of onset in eating disorders

This paper presents age of onset data for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, derived from a sample of 323 patients referred to a tertiary referral center. Patients had anorexia nervosa (n = 39), bulimia nervosa (n = 173), or bulimia nervosa with a history of anorexia nervosa (n = 173). While the pattern of onset of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa is similar up to age 25, there is a significant excess of new cases of anorexia nervosa beyond this point. Significantly, age of onset was constant for both anorexia nervosa and bulimia regardless of whether they occurred in isolation (anorexia or bulimia alone) or in concert in the same individual (bulimia with a history of anorexia nervosa).     

“Becoming the Real Me”: Recovering from Anorexia Nervosa

Abstract

We investigated the process of recovery from anorexia nervosa using grounded theory. Open-ended interviews conducted with 9 women who had recovered from anorexia nervosa revealed that recovery focused on rediscovery and redefinition of the self and included the following: (1) seeing the dangers, (2) inching out of anorexia, (3) tolerating exposure without anorexia, (4) gaining perspective by changing the anorexia mindset, and (5) discovering and reclaiming self as “good enough.” The process of recovery described in this study may provide a useful framework for helping women understand their own process of recovery, and introducing them to strategies that support their recovery efforts. The findings also support therapies that foster therapeutic alliance, acknowledge readiness for change, and promote a sense of autonomy.     

The Physiology of eating disorders

This article summarizes current understanding of the pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa. Evidence is reviewed of alterations in hypothalamic-pitui-tary-thyroid mechanisms, catecholamine metabolism, and endogenous opioid activity. It is concluded that once weight loss and starvation occur, the usual mechanisms for release and inhibition of various regulators of eating behavior change, and a new set of regulating mechanisms is instituted. Thus, despite an increased body of knowledge, understanding of the origins of anorexia nervosa still eludes us.     

Suicide and attempted suicide in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa

Suicide in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa is a major cause of death. Risk factors for suicide and attempted suicide (which in many cases results in successful suicide) in anorexia nervosa include: purging type, chronic disease, and during treatment, obsessive symptoms and drug abuse, major depression, and for anorexia nervosa low body mass index (BMI) at presentation. In anorexia nervosa suicide has been considered the first cause of death and attempted suicide is a serious threat to these individuals. Data concerning suicide in bulimia nervosa has still scarce whereas attempted suicides are easily found in clinical histories of patients. No doubt suicidal behavior is underestimated amongst patients with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. An effort to reconcile with subject of suicide and a better evaluation of these patients' psychopathology should improve suicide prevention strategies amongst these individuals.     

Is anorexia nervosa associated with elevated rates of suicide?

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether individuals with anorexia nervosa are more likely to commit suicide, as suggested by previously noted associations between anorexia nervosa and mood disorders. METHODS: Data from death records representing over 5 million women were examined, yielding 571 cases in which anorexia nervosa was mentioned as an existing condition. The women with anorexia were compared with 1713 control subjects matched for age, sex, and race. RESULTS: The percentage of suicides among those listed as having anorexia nervosa was only 1.4%, compared with 4.1% for the controls. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that the suicide rate is not elevated among individuals currently suffering from anorexia nervosa.     

Medical complications of anorexia nervosa in children and adolescents

Anorexia nervosa in children and adolescents is still a serious cause of morbidity and mortality which may result in premature death or life-long medical and psychosocial morbidity. This condition can cause significant medical complications in every organ system of the growing and developing body. Although many of these medical complications improve with nutritional rehabilitation and recovery from the disorder some are potentially irreversible. This article summarizes the evidence based literature on medical complications that has been specially studied in child and adolescent population with anorexia nervosa over the past two decades. This review of the literature focuses on the acute symptoms of anorexia nervosa with special emphasis on the fluid and electrolyte levels and refeeding syndrome, and details the cardiovascular complications. Summarizes the special alterations in childhood and adolescent anorexia nervosa such as impaired bone mineral accretion and the possible therapeutic interventions of osteopenia and alterations in linear growth. The reviewed literature suggests that the medical complications in adolescents with anorexia nervosa are different from those reported in the adult population. The unique clinical presentation, the early onset and the unknown impact of these complications underline the need for early identification and early efficient treatment of anorexia nervosa in adolescents. There is an increasing number of evidence that highlight the importance of interdisciplinary teams of healthcare providers in the identification and in the therapy of adolescent anorexia nervosa as well.