F50.022

Clinical Causes: Genetic predisposition influencing susceptibility to eating disorders. Psychological factors such as low self-esteem, perfectionism, or emotional distress. Environmental influences including cultural pressures for thinness, trauma, or family dynamics. Biological factors affecting hunger regulation and mood, like hormonal imbalances. History of dieting or social exposure to restrictive eating behaviors.

Key Symptoms: Significant weight loss leading to a BMI between 15.0 and 15.99 kg/m². Preoccupation with body weight, shape, and size. Engaging in binge eating episodes followed by purging behaviors such as vomiting or misuse of laxatives. Physical signs like fatigue, dizziness, thinning hair, or dry skin. Menstrual disturbances or cessation (amenorrhea). Electrolyte imbalances caused by repeated vomiting or laxative abuse. Anxiety about gaining weight despite being underweight. Social withdrawal and decreased interest in usual activities.

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including physical examinations, psychological assessments, and review of eating behaviors. Clinicians assess BMI to determine severity, with a BMI between 15.0 and 15.99 kg/m² indicating a severe level. Additional diagnostic tools may include lab tests to identify electrolyte imbalances or other health issues caused by disordered eating.

Treatment Protocols: Treating severe anorexia nervosa with binge eating and purging requires a multidisciplinary approach. Therapy options often include nutrient repletion to restore healthy body weight, psychotherapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address underlying psychological factors, and medical management to monitor and correct electrolyte disturbances. In some cases, hospitalization or inpatient care may be necessary to ensure safety and stabilize physical health. Long-term treatment focuses on relapse prevention, nutritional rehabilitation, and mental health support.