Update on Major Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia): A Topic Review

Abstract

Eating Disorders are mental illnesses with potentially life-threatening consequences and with a challenging treatment. The most common types are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder. Anorexia causes a massive caloric and nutrient deficit, leading to impairments in the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, endocrine, neurological, and skeletal systems. Bulimia results in dental erosion, esophageal tears, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and electrolyte imbalances that can lead to cardiac dysfunction. Both disorders cause psychosocial, economic, and occupational challenges. This narrative review was  conducted to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the key aspects for their comprehensive and effective treatment. This was achieved through a systematic search on PubMed for publications between 2022 and 2024  The findings reveal that both disorders originate from a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors, and their standard treatment includes lifestyle guidance, refeeding therapy for anorexia, cognitive-behavioral and family therapy, and medications with limited evidence. It is concluded that achieving an effective pharmacological treatment for these disorders, especially anorexia, requires more rigorous scientific research focusing on innovative alternatives.