The endocrinopathies of anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Objective: To describe the hormonal adaptations and alterations in anorexia nervosa.

Methods: We performed a PubMed search of the English-language literature related to the pathophysiology of the endocrine disorders observed in anorexia nervosa, and we describe a case to illustrate these findings.

Results: Anorexia nervosa is a devastating disease with a variety of endocrine manifestations. The effects of starvation are extensive and negatively affect the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, gonads, and bones. Appetite is modulated by the neuroendocrine system, and characteristic patterns of leptin and ghrelin concentrations have been observed in anorexia nervosa. A thorough understanding of refeeding syndrome is imperative to nutrition rehabilitation in these patients to avoid devastating consequences. Although most endocrinopathies associated with anorexia nervosa reverse with recovery, short stature, osteoporosis, and infertility may be long-lasting complications. We describe a 20-year-old woman who presented with end-stage anorexia nervosa whose clinical course reflects the numerous complications caused by this disease.

Conclusions: The effects of severe malnutrition and subsequent refeeding are extensive in anorexia nervosa. Nutrition rehabilitation is the most appropriate treatment for these patients; however, it must be done cautiously.