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Common-
Eating disorder characterised by excessive eating. It is associated with episodes of loss of impulse control. It differs from bulimia in that it doesn't involve inappropriate behaviours such as avoiding weight gain, inducing vomiting, taking laxatives or diuretics. It is more common in teenage girls and young women.
Its cause is still unknown, but it has been linked to genetic, psychological and social factors.
The diagnosis is made through a guided interview. A blood culture helps to understand the patient's nutritional status.
Treatment includes group therapy, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and medication such as 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.
Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol
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