Title:The Medical Complications of Anorexia Nervosa and Their Treatments
Volume: 11
Issue: 2
Author(s): Jennifer McBride, Kristine Walsh and Philip S. Mehler
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Amenorrhea, anorexia nervosa, medical complications, osteoporosis.
Abstract: Anorexia nervosa is a chronic mental health disorder associated with multiple medical
complications. Intensive preoccupation with body weight and shape are the hallmarks of anorexia
nervosa as defined by DSM-5. As a result of malnutrition and weight loss there develop major organ
dysfunction and complications. No body system is immune to the ravages of this illness despite the
typically young age of those affected. Most unfortunately, some of these complications are known
now to be irreversible. However, the vast majority of these complications are reversible with timely
and effective services. These patients are often co-managed by an internist and a mental health
professional. Thus, the need for familiarity with the medical complications associated with anorexia nervosa.
