Eating Disorders

Question 1

Diagnosis of anorexia nervosa requires maintenance of body weight at what percentage below ideal body weight?

Answer 1

15%

Question 2

What other health conditions often accompany anorexia nervosa? Name two:

Answer 2

• Major depressive disorder

- Anxiety disorders

Question 3

What are the medical complications of anorexia nervosa? Name FOUR

Answer 3

Muscle wasting
Hypokalemia
Depression of CV function leading to Bradycardia + Hypotension
Depression of body temp leading to hypothermia
Arrhythmias
Death

Question 4

Which complication of eating disorder has the greatest potential for immediate lethality? Why?

Answer 4

Hypokalemia - causes cardiac arrhythmias leading to possible sudden death

Question 5

In a patient with a suspected eating disorder, list FIVE questions you would ask on history

Answer 5

• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Exercise regimen
• Perception of body image
• Laxative/Diuretic/Enema use
• Amenorrhea
• FHx eating disorders
• Hx psychiatric illness such as major depressive disorder, anxiety, OCD