Introduction
Eating disorder defined as an abnormally low body weight associated with intense fear of gaining weight and distorted cognitions regarding weight, shape, and drive for thinness
- Anorexia nervosa the highest mortality of any psychiatric disorder

Aetiology
Risk factors for eating disorders:
Anorexia nervosa is more common in females than males. Onset is late adolescence and early adulthood.
- Childhood obesity
- Female sex
- Mood disorders
- Personality traits (impulsivity and perfectionism)
- Sexual abuse
- Weight-related concerns from family/peer environments
Associated conditions:
- Depression (M/C, 65% cases)
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (25% cases)
- Social phobia (3-5% cases)


Clinical features
- Binge-eating/purging type: Individual utilizes binge eating or displays purging behavior as a means for losing weight
- Restricting type: Individual uses restricting food intake, fasting, diet pills, or exercise as a means for losing weight or exercise excessively to keep off weight or prevent weight gain
Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria:

- SCOFF questionnaire is useful in diagnosis
Complications:

Management
Immediate management:
Severely undernourished cases:
- Nutritional rehabilitation
- Oral supervised feeding
- If needed: Nasogastric/parenteral nutrition
Psychotherapy:
A nurturing emotional environment is essential
- Individual and family therapy
- Group therapy
Pharmacotherapy:
- Antidepressant drugs
- Antipsychotic drugs
Summary:
