Bulimia nervosa complicated by Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer

Abstract

The eating disorder bulimia nervosa (BN) is characterized by episodes of binge eating lasting for more than 3 months, a lack of control over eating behavior, and persistent concern with body shape and weight. Certain features intended to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, strict dieting or fasting, vigorous exercise, and use of laxatives or diuretics are characteristic.1,2 In contrast to those with anorexia nervosa, most patients with BN are of normal weight. Long-term consequences of BN include dental caries, parotid hypertrophy, calluses on the skin of the hands, esophageal rupture, gastric rupture, development of hiatus hernia, reflux esophagitis, and electrolyte and metabolic disturbances.