ARS | Publication request: Case 39: Anorexia nervosa

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: February 1, 2008
Publication Date: April 10, 2008
Citation: Young, M.E. 2008. Case 39: Anorexia nervosa. In: Toy, E.C., Seifert, W.E., Strobel, H.W., Harms, K.P. editors. Case Files Biochemistry. 2nd Edition. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Medical. p. 356-363.

Technical Abstract: Anorexia nervosa is a disease affecting primarily young women who have distorted body images. Although their weight is less than 30 percent under ideal body weight, they see themselves as overweight. Anorectics often use diuretic and laxative agents to accomplish their weight loss. Patients with bulimia, who usually induce emesis, may be at normal weight or even above ideal body weight; in contrast, anorectics are almost always under ideal body weight. Often, affected individuals become amenorrheic, have fine lanugo hair, and become hypothermic. Therapy must be multifaceted and include family and individual counseling, behavioral modification, and possibly medication. Severe cases may be fatal.