Treatment of anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness characterized by the maintenance of an inappropriately low body weight, a relentless pursuit of thinness, and distorted cognitions about body shape and weight. The present review addresses the diagnosis, epidemiology, prognosis and considered extensive Iiterature about the treatment of anorexia nervosa. A literature search through a PUBMED search for the period from January 1994 to October 2009 was conducted for case reports and group studies with epidemiology, risk factor, prognosis, adequate treatment of anorexia nervosa. Data was reviewing reference lists, journals, and conference abstracts. And we reviewed textbooks, guidelines of eating disorders and reference lists of the sfudies selected. There is a growing evidence base for the treatment of eating disorders. Weight restoration is essential in treatment, but insufficient evidence is available for any single approach. Dealing with the psychiatric problems is not simple and much controversy remains. Family therapy is a valuable part of treatment, particularly for children and adolescents. but no particular approach emerges as superior to any other. Treatment of anorexia nervosa shifted from a purely medical approach to a strong emphasis on individual psychotherapy taking into account both a developmental and a biological framework and the need for a multifaceted treatment approach. Both behavioral and cognitive interventions were added to treatment programs SSRls in combination with psychotherapy are widely used in treating patients with anorexia nervosa. These medications may be considered for those with persistent depressive, anxiety or obsessive compulsive symptoms and for bulimic symptoms in weight-restored patients.