Medical complications of anorexia nervosa and their treatments: an update on some critical aspects

Eat Weight Disord. 2015 Dec;20(4):419-25. doi: 10.1007/s40519-015-0202-3. Epub 2015 Jul 3.

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. Many of the deaths are attributable to medical complications which arise as the malnutrition and weight loss worsens. Every body system may be adversely affected by anorexia nervosa. Yet, remarkably, most of the medical complications of anorexia nervosa are treatable and reversible with optimal medical care, as part of a multidisciplinary team who are often involved in the care of these patients. Herein, we will describe the medical complications of anorexia nervosa and their treatments.

Keywords: Anorexia nervosa; Body systems; Cardiac; Medical complications; Osteoporosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anorexia Nervosa / complications*
  • Anorexia Nervosa / therapy
  • Humans