Approach to a patient with suspected mental anorexia

Czech version

Authors: Michaela Jančíková ¹; Martin Světnička ¹; Aneta Kodytková ^2,3; Jan David ^1,3
Published in: Čes-slov Pediat 2025; 80 (3): 136-141.
Category: Pediatric Protocols in Praxis
doi: https://doi.org/10.55095/CSPediatrie2025/016

Overview

Jančíková M, Světnička M, Kodytková A, David J. Approach to a patient with suspected mental anorexia

Mental anorexia is most common in adolescent girls and young women, but can affect individuals of any age, gender, sexual orientation or any socio-economic level. Although it is a serious disease, some patients may have a completely physiological finding on clinical physical examination. Early diagnosis is essential and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Tunnel vision must be avoided and other possible organic causes properly ruled out. As part of the therapeutic approach, it should be borne in mind that the disease is not the result of patient choice and it is therefore advisable to take a non-sanctioned and motivating approach. Mental anorexia requires interdisciplinary cooperation and belongs to the field of pedopsychiatry, with the need for cooperation with a psychologist. A full recovery is possible, however, it is often lengthy and accompanied by a number of relapses.

The presented article discusses the approach to a patient with suspected mental anorexia, including etiopathogenesis, clinical and paraclinical findings, diagnosis and treatment from the perspective of outpatient and hospital paediatrics.

Keywords:

eating disorders – paediatrics – anorexia nervosa

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