Myocardial performance during maximal exercise in adolescents with anorexia nervosa

AIM: To examine cardiac responses and indicators of myocardial function during maximal exercise in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa. METHODS: Eight girls (mean age 16.3+/-2.7 years) who satisfied criteria for the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa underwent maximal cycle testing. Cardiac stroke volume and peak aortic velocity and mean acceleration of flow (markers of myocardial contractility) were assessed using Doppler echocardiography and compared to healthy control subjects. Gas exchange variables were measured using open circuit spirometry techniques. RESULTS: Resting and maximal heart rates were less in the patients, and maximal oxygen uptake was significantly lower than controls. Maximal stroke index was greater in the patients than controls, with a normal pattern of response to progressive exercise. Peak aortic velocity and mean acceleration of flow were similar in the two groups when adjusted for heart rate. CONCLUSION: Findings of low heart rate and aerobic fitness previously described in patients with anorexia nervosa were confirmed. However, there was no evidence of abnormal myocardial performance during maximal exercise testing.