Conference paper
MANAGEMENT OF ADULT PATIENTS WITH ANOREXIA NERVOSA: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Carole Jassogne
; Université Catholique de Louvain, CHU Namur Godinne, Psychosomatics Unit, Yvoir, Belgium
Nicolas Zdanowicz
; Université Catholique de Louvain, CHU Namur Godinne, Psychosomatics Unit, Yvoir, Belgium
Abstract
Background: Anorexia is a frequent pathology; not only does it cause major changes in patients’ quality of life, but also the
mortality rate is high. This mortality mainly affects young people. However, care remains controversial. The aim of this literature
review is, therefore, to review current guidelines.
Subjects and methods: A review of the literature published between 2006 and 2017, from articles contained in the Cochrane,
PubMed, Scopus and PsychINFO databases. Keywords were ‘anorexia nervosa’, ‘adults’ and ‘management’.
Results: Patient management must be multidisciplinary and prioritise weight gain. For this to happen, outpatient monitoring
must include a gradual normalisation of eating habits. This always involves psychotherapy and sometimes prescription medication. However, no specific therapy or psychotropic drug has demonstrated statistical superiority in the management of anorexic patients. Cognitive behavioural therapy remains the most effective therapy in preventing relapse, and family therapies for the treatment of young patients who are still living with their families of origin. Hospitalization is sometimes necessary and must then include gradual and closely monitored refeeding to avoid the potentially fatal refeeding syndrome.
Conclusions: The management of anorexic patients is complex but always involves reaching a normal weight. The best
prognosis is found in young patients with the least chronic disease.
Keywords
anorexia nervosa; adults; treatment
Hrčak ID:
262990
URI
Publication date:
21.11.2018.
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