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It is an eating disorder characterized by excessive food intake coinciding with episodes of loss of impulse control. In order not to gain weight, the person performs inappropriate behaviors such as provoking vomiting, taking laxatives or diuretics. It is more frequent in adolescent and young adult women. It frequently coexists with anorexia nervosa.
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.
- Sara F Forman, MD.& Eating disorders: Overview of epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis. UpToDate. Jul 27, 2016.
- James E Mitchell, MD. Christie Zunker, PhD, CPH, CHES. Bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder in adults: Medical complications and their management. UpToDate. Jul 27, 2016
- Mehler PS, Birmingham LC, Crow SJ, Jahraus JP. Medical complications of eating disorders. In: The Treatment of Eating Disorders: A Clinical Handbook, Grilo CM, Mitchell JE (Eds), The Guilford Press, New York 2010. p.66.
- Reus V. Trastornos mentales. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición: 2720.
- Brown CA, Mehler PS. Medical complications of self-induced vomiting. Eat Disord 2013; 21:287.
Dr. Sara Vitoria
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