Atypical anorexia nervosa

An eating disorder characterized by restrictive eating behaviors without low body weight

Atypical anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that shares many of the same symptoms as anorexia nervosa, but without the criterion of significantly low body weight. Individuals with atypical anorexia nervosa engage in restrictive eating behaviors and have an intense fear of gaining weight, yet their body weight remains within or above the normal range. This condition is recognized in the DSM-5 under the category of OSFED.

Clinical Features

Atypical anorexia nervosa is characterized by the same psychological and behavioral symptoms as anorexia nervosa, including:

• Severe restriction of food intake
• Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat
• Distorted body image

However, unlike anorexia nervosa, individuals with atypical anorexia nervosa do not have a body weight that is significantly below the normal range. This can lead to challenges in diagnosis, as the absence of low body weight may cause the disorder to be overlooked.

Health Consequences

Despite the absence of low body weight, atypical anorexia nervosa can lead to serious health complications. These may include:

• Electrolyte imbalance
• Cardiovascular issues
• Osteoporosis
• Amenorrhea
• Gastrointestinal problems

The psychological impact is also significant, with many individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Depression and loss

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of atypical anorexia nervosa involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional. This includes evaluating eating behaviors, psychological symptoms, and physical health. The absence of low body weight requires clinicians to focus on the psychological and behavioral aspects of the disorder.

Treatment

Treatment for atypical anorexia nervosa is similar to that for anorexia nervosa and often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Nutritional counseling
• Medical monitoring
• Family-based therapy

The goal of treatment is to normalize eating patterns, address psychological issues, and prevent medical complications.

Epidemiology

Atypical anorexia nervosa is more common than previously thought, particularly among adolescents and young adults. It affects individuals across all genders, though it is more frequently diagnosed in females.

Related Pages

• Anorexia nervosa
• Bulimia nervosa
• Binge eating disorder
• Eating disorder

Association of Anorexia nervosa with psychiatric and metabolic traits

See Also

• Body dysmorphic disorder
• Mental health
• Nutrition