Developmental aspects of anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an increasingly common eating disorder with a prevalence of up to 0.5% in adolescents. If one considers subclinical syndromes the prevalence rate is probably much higher. AN is biopsychosocial disorder that occurs in response to the developmental challenge. Abnormal eating behavior results in weight loss, and has serious medical complications. Most of them are potentially irreversible, particularly osteopenia/osteoporosis, arrested growth and sexual development. This article highlights the unique development aspects of AN in children and adolescents. In caring for patients with AN, the pediatricians have several important roles in medical and nutritional management and coordination with mental health professionals.