It is an eating disorder characterized by ingestion of excessive amounts of food coinciding with episodes of loss of impulse control. It differs from Bulimia in that it is not accompanied by inappropriate behaviors to avoid weight gain, such as making oneself vomit, taking laxatives or diuretics. It is more frequent in adolescent and young adult women.
The cause is unknown, but a relationship with genetic, psychological and social factors has been described.
The diagnosis is made by means of a directed interrogation. A blood test helps to know the nutritional status.
Treatment includes group therapy, psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication with antidepressants and/or antipsychotics.
- US Preventive Services Task Force, Davidson KW, Barry MJ, et al. Screening for Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA 2022; 327:1061.
- Attia E, Guarda AS. Prevention and Early Identification of Eating Disorders. JAMA 2022; 327:1029.
- Feltner C, Peat C, Reddy S, et al. Screening for Eating Disorders in Adolescents and Adults: Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA 2022; 327:1068.
- Nagata JM, Golden NH. New US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendations on Screening for Eating Disorders. JAMA Intern Med 2022; 182:471.
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), American Psychiatric Association, Arlington, VA 2013.
- Lavender JM, Crosby RD, Wonderlich SA. Dimensions in the eating disorders: past, present, and future. Commentary on Wildes and Marcus: Incorporating dimensions into the classification of eating disorders. Int J Eat Disord 2013; 46:404.

