Treatment of patients with severe and enduring eating disorders

Energy expenditure during nutritional rehabilitation: a scoping review to investigate hypermetabolism in individuals with anorexia nervosa

BACKGROUND

Weight gain and nutritional rehabilitation are essential first steps to achieve medical stabilization in anorexia nervosa, and frequent resistance to weight gain requires patients to consume high kilocalorie loads. Adaptive hypometabolism is common when patients begin treatment, and rebound hypermetabolism is suspected to be a significant barrier to weight gain. The aim of this review was to summarize existing data describing metabolic changes in anorexia nervosa during weight restoration. The reported findings challenge current hypotheses of weight gain resistance and highlight key areas for future research.

METHODS

Using scoping review guidelines, three databases were searched for studies investigating metabolic changes in anorexia nervosa before and after renourishment. Two reviewers systematically screened the titles and abstracts of 447 articles, and full-text versions of 106 studies were assessed for eligibility. A total of 36 studies were included for review. Data regarding the study description, sample population (including age, weight, BMI, duration of treatment, and caloric intake), and metabolic variable descriptions were extracted.

RESULTS

Female patients with anorexia nervosa from studies across 13 countries were included. Across the studies, average BMI increased from 13.7 kg/m2 at admission to 17.57 kg/m2. Patients presented to treatment with clinically reduced energy expenditure levels. After varying levels of nutritional rehabilitation and weight restoration, measured energy expenditure increased significantly in 76% of the studies. Energy expenditure values at the second timepoint increased to the standard range for normal weight female teenagers and adults. Despite these increases, the studies do not indicate the presence of a hypermetabolic state during renourishment. Additionally, all studies including both measured and predicted energy expenditure reported that predicted energy expenditure overestimated measured values.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a detailed evaluation of the literature investigating energy expenditure and metabolic rate in patients with anorexia nervosa before and following a period of renourishment. The findings from this review identify important gaps in the current beliefs of energy expenditure in anorexia nervosa and highlight a need for further exploration of metabolic alterations during weight restoration.

Staging models in eating disorders: A systematic scoping review of the literature

Eating Disorders (ED) are characterized by low remission rates, treatment drop-out, and residual symptoms. To improve assessment and treatment of ED, the staging approach has been proposed. This systematic scoping review is aimed at mapping the existing staging models that explicitly propose stages of the progression of ED. A systematic search of PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus was conducted with the terms staging, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorders, eating disorders. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria presenting nine ED staging models, mostly for anorexia nervosa. Three were empirically tested, one of which was through an objective measure specifically developed to differentiate between stages. Most staging models featured early stages in which the exacerbation of EDs unfolds and acute phases are followed by chronic stages. Intermediate stages were not limited to acute stages, but also residual phases, remission, relapse, and recovery. The criteria for stage differentiation encompassed behavioral, psychological, cognitive, and physical features including body mass index and illness duration. One study recommended stage-oriented interventions. The current review underscores the need to empirically test the available staging models and to develop and test new proposals of staging models for other ED populations. The inclusion of criteria based on medical features and biomarkers is recommended. Staging models can potentially guide assessment and interventions in daily clinical settings.

Inclusion of the severe and enduring anorexia nervosa phenotype in genetics research: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates of all mental illnesses. For those who survive, less than 70% fully recover, with many going on to develop a more severe and enduring phenotype. Research now suggests that genetics plays a role in the development and persistence of anorexia nervosa. Inclusion of participants with more severe and enduring illness in genetics studies of anorexia nervosa is critical.

OBJECTIVE

The primary goal of this review was to assess the inclusion of participants meeting the criteria for the severe enduring anorexia nervosa phenotype in genetics research by (1) identifying the most widely used defining criteria for severe enduring anorexia nervosa and (2) performing a review of the genetics literature to assess the inclusion of participants meeting the identified criteria.

METHODS

Searches of the genetics literature from 2012 to 2023 were performed in the PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases. Publications were selected per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The criteria used to define the severe and enduring anorexia nervosa phenotype were derived by how often they were used in the literature since 2017. The publications identified through the literature search were then assessed for inclusion of participants meeting these criteria.

RESULTS

most prevalent criteria used to define severe enduring anorexia nervosa in the literature were an illness duration of ≥ 7 years, lack of positive response to at least two previous evidence-based treatments, a body mass index meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-5 for extreme anorexia nervosa, and an assessment of psychological and/or behavioral severity indicating a significant impact on quality of life. There was a lack of consistent identification and inclusion of those meeting the criteria for severe enduring anorexia nervosa in the genetics literature.

DISCUSSION

This lack of consistent identification and inclusion of patients with severe enduring anorexia nervosa in genetics research has the potential to hamper the isolation of risk loci and the development of new, more effective treatment options for patients with anorexia nervosa.

Severe enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN) treatment options and their effectiveness: a review of literature

INTRODUCTION

 For nearly 20% of patients diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa (AN), the eating disorder (ED) is prolonged and becomes long-lasting. It has been reported that patients diagnosed with Severe Enduring Anorexia Nervosa (SE-AN) have worse ED symptoms, higher rates of lifetime hospitalization, and lower psychosocial well-being compared to patients with shorter disease duration.

OBJECTIVES

 This review aims to describe the treatments proposed to date and their effectiveness on SE-AN-related outcomes.

METHODS

 We conducted a PubMed search for studies addressing the issue of treatment approach to SE-AN adults, that were published between 2003 and 2023, peer-reviewed, written in the English language, and available in full-text. Next, we inductively created relevant macro-themes by synthesizing the data from the included articles.

RESULTS

 Of 251 PubMed studies, 25 articles were considered for data extraction, all published between 2003 and 2022. We identified three macro-themes. The first macro-theme, "Psychotherapy", mostly takes into consideration treatment effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Various reports determined its greater effectiveness compared to Specialist Supportive Clinical Management (SSCM), and one study proved that outpatient CBT is a valid alternative to hospitalization. The second one involves "Pharmacological Treatments". Research on dronabinol, a synthetic orexigenic cannabinoid, antipsychotics (in particular, olanzapine and haloperidol), and ketamine showed some mixed results regarding the often-complementary areas of weight gain and improvement in ED-related symptoms. Regarding the third macro-theme, "Brain Stimulation Therapies," such as Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), we found promising results in improving ED-related psychological traits (such as mood and anxiety), affective regulation, and quality of life. However, we have observed divergent results regarding outcome measures such as BMI and weight gain.

CONCLUSIONS

 SE-AN patients are predicted to encounter both medical complications and psychological distress of increasing severity that will inevitably affect their quality of life; to our knowledge, research evidence on treatment options for SE-AN remains limited, and the methodological quality of studies is generally low. These findings denote the need to focus future research efforts on effective treatment strategies specific to long-lasting EDs.

Assessing motivation for treatment in eating disorders: psychometric validation of the Italian version of the Autonomous and Controlled Motivation for Treatment Questionnaire (ACMTQ-ITA)

PURPOSE

Treatment resistance is a significant challenge in addressing eating disorders (EDs). The Autonomous and Controlled Motivation for Treatment Questionnaire (ACMTQ) has been previously validated in ED populations to assess patients' motivation for treatment. This study aimed to validate the ACMTQ in the Italian language (ACMTQ-ITA) and evaluate its psychometric properties.

METHODS

We recruited a clinical sample of adults aged 18 or older, diagnosed with EDs, proficient in the Italian language, and providing written informed consent. Participants with psychiatric comorbidities such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and substance use disorder were excluded from the study. Validity of the ACMTQ-ITA was assessed using reliability analysis with Cronbach's α and McDonald's ω estimates, and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA).

RESULTS

Results from the reliability analysis confirmed the internal consistency of the Autonomous Motivation (AM) factor (α = 0.82, ω = 0.82), the Controlled Motivation (CM) factor (α = 0.76, ω = 0.77), and the ACMTQ-ITA overall score (α = 0.79). The CFA confirmed the two-factor solution (i.e., AM and CM) identified in the original validation of the ACMTQ (Comparative Fit Index = 0.92, Akaike Information Criterion = 3427.26, Bayesian Information Criterion = 3486.82; Root Mean Square Error of Approximation = 0.08, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual = 0.09).

CONCLUSION

The ACMTQ-ITA emerged as a valid and reliable tool for measuring motivation for treatment in individuals with EDs. Its implementation may facilitate the comprehension of treatment motivation, offering valuable clinical insights and implications for health management practices.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, descriptive studies.

Specialist psychotherapy with emotion for anorexia in Kent and Sussex: An intervention development and non-randomised single arm feasibility trial

OBJECTIVE

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder treated using psychological interventions, yet outcomes remain limited. Emotional difficulties are recognised as a treatment target. This research programme developed and evaluated feasibility of an emotion-focused therapy for adults with AN.

METHODS

Phase One intervention development utilised 'intervention mapping'. Qualitative research drew on lived experience highlighting objectives for change. Empirical evidence was synthesised into hypotheses of core emotional difficulties and an associated model of change. Relevant psychotherapeutic theory-based change methods were integrated to form the Specialist Psychotherapy with Emotion for Anorexia in Kent and Sussex (SPEAKS) intervention, guidebook and clinician training package. Phase Two tested SPEAKS in a single-arm, multisite feasibility trial across two specialist services, utilising prespecified progression criteria, and embedded process evaluation.

RESULTS

SPEAKS was 9-12 months (40 sessions) of weekly individual psychotherapy, drawing on a range of psychotherapeutic modalities, predominantly Emotion Focused Therapy and Schema Therapy. Forty-six participants consented to feasibility trial participation; 42 entered the trial and 34 completed. Thirteen of 16 feasibility criteria were met at green level and three at amber, highlighting areas for improving model adherence.

CONCLUSIONS

A randomised controlled trial is indicated. Therapist training and guidebook adjustments to improve model adherence are suggested.

Severe-Enduring Anorexia Nervosa (SE-AN): a case series

BACKGROUND

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) poses significant therapeutic challenges, especially in cases meeting the criteria for Severe and Enduring Anorexia Nervosa (SE-AN). This subset of AN is associated with severe medical complications, frequent use of services, and the highest mortality rate among psychiatric disorders.

CASE PRESENTATION

In the present case series, 14 patients were selected from those currently or previously taken care of at the Eating Disorders Outpatients Unit of the Maggiore Hospital in Bologna between January 2012 and May 2023. This case series focuses on the effects of the disease, the treatment compliance, and the description of those variables that could help understand the great complexity of the disorder.

CONCLUSION

This case series highlights the relevant issue of resistance to treatment, as well as medical and psychological complications that mark the life course of SE-AN patients. The chronicity of these disorders is determined by the overlapping of the disorder's ego-syntonic nature, the health system's difficulty in recognizing the problem in its early stages, and the presence of occupational and social impairment.

Predictors for and duration of hospitalization among children and adolescents with eating disorders

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the predictive value of sex, age, body mass index (BMI), Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) score, social risk factors, and psychiatric comorbidities for hospitalization and hospitalization duration among children and adolescents suffering from eating disorders.

METHOD

This prospective cohort study involved 522 consecutive patients who had been referred to a specialized eating disorder unit between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2015; participants were followed up until August 1, 2016 by medical records. We used regression analyses to evaluate the prognostic value of sex, age, BMI, EDE, eating disorder diagnoses, social risk factors, and psychiatric comorbidities concerning inpatient hospitalization and hospitalization duration.

RESULTS

We found that younger age, higher EDE global score, lower BMI percentile, anorexia nervosa, a higher number of social risk factors, and the presence of diagnosed self-harm increased the odds of being hospitalized, while being female and having a comorbid autism spectrum condition increased the duration of hospitalization. No other psychiatric comorbidity was found to significantly predict hospitalization or duration of hospitalization.

DISCUSSION

The odds of being hospitalized were predicted by the severity of anorexia nervosa and indicators of social risk factors in the family, whereas the duration of hospitalization was predicted by having a comorbid autism spectrum condition, indicating a difference between the factors affecting the risk of hospitalization and the factors affecting the duration of hospitalization. This calls for further exploration of tailored treatments for eating disorders.

PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

This study finds that hospitalization for an eating disorder is predicted by the severity of the illness, self-harm, and social risk factors. Duration of hospitalization is predicted by having a comorbid autism spectrum condition. These findings indicate that the treatment of eating disorders may require different treatment approaches depending on the presentation of the individual patient to reduce both the need for hospitalization and the length of inpatient stay.

Detecting pathological exercise in college men: An investigation using latent profile analysis

OBJECTIVE

Pathological exercise is a dangerous behavior often observed in eating disorders. Data investigating associated characteristics of pathological exercise in men are lacking, despite college men and women being at equally elevated risk for developing eating disorders.

PARTICIPANTS

Two hundred and twenty-four college men who exercise regularly completed a series of self-report questionnaires.

METHODS

Latent profile analysis was used to identify empirically-derived homogenous subgroups of regular exercisers based on severity of other eating disorder attitudes and behaviors. Profiles were also compared on differences in exercise motivation and general psychopathology (i.e., depression, anxiety).

RESULTS

Fit indices indicated a three-profile solution. Profiles described an eating psychopathology group, a low psychopathology group, and a high exercise frequency group without eating disorder features.

CONCLUSIONS

Pathological exercise cannot be identified using exercise frequency alone. Other features like body dissatisfaction and exercise motivation style are relevant in identifying pathological exercise behavior in college men.

What role do early life experiences play in eating disorders? The impact of parenting style, temperament and early maladaptive schemas

OBJECTIVE

Given that most eating disorders develop in adolescence and early adulthood, early life experiences are said to play a key role in the aetiology of eating disorders. There are well-documented relationships between early maladaptive schemas and eating disorders, early maladaptive schemas and temperament and temperament and perceived parenting style. The present study aimed to test a hypothesis that perceived parenting style predicts temperament, which predicts early maladaptive schemas, which predict eating disorder symptoms in young people.

METHOD

An online survey measured perceived parenting style, temperament, early maladaptive schemas and eating disorder symptoms in 397 people with disordered eating between the ages of 18 and 29. Path analysis was used to investigate the relationship between these elements.

RESULTS

The results found support for this hypothesis. Perceived maladaptive parenting ratings for mothers were a stronger predictor of temperament, and only two temperament factors were adequate predictors of early maladaptive schemas.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the present study found preliminary support for a linear relationship where perceived parenting style predicts temperament, which predicts early maladaptive schema levels, which predicts eating disorder symptoms. The present study was the first to propose and test this model; however, further research is required to confirm the nature and extent of this relationship.

Living and leaving a life of coercion: a qualitative interview study of patients with anorexia nervosa and multiple involuntary treatment events

BACKGROUND

A small but significant group of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) undergo multiple involuntary treatment (IT) events. To enhance our understanding of IT and potentially inform treatment, we explored experiences and perspectives on IT of these patients.

METHODS

We designed a qualitative semi-structured interview study and used reflexive thematic analysis. Participants were at least 18 years of age, had multiple past IT events (≥ 5) related to AN over a period of at least one month of which the last IT event happened within the preceding five years. Participants had no current IT, intellectual disability, acute psychosis, or severe developmental disorder. We adopted an inductive approach and constructed meaning-based themes.

RESULTS

We interviewed seven participants. The data portrayed a process of living and leaving a life of coercion with a timeline covering three broad themes: living with internal coercion, coercive treatment, and leaving coercion; and five subthemes: helping an internal battle, augmenting suffering, feeling trapped, a lasting imprint, and changing perspectives. We highlighted that patients with AN and multiple IT events usually experienced internal coercion from the AN prior to external coercion from the health care system. IT evoked significant negative affect when experienced, and often left an adverse imprint. Moreover, IT could help an internal battle against AN and perspectives on IT could change over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that feeling internally coerced by AN itself sets the stage for IT. Clinicians should be conscious of the potential iatrogenic effects of IT, and reserve IT for potentially life-threatening situations.

Clinical and Ethical Dilemmas in the Involuntary Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After completing this activity, practitioners will be better able to:• Discuss the growing body literature emphasizing moderation and harm-reduction in patients with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN)• Outline and discuss the legal, ethical, and medical challenges inpatient providers face when treating patients with SE-AN.

ABSTRACT

Patients with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN) present numerous clinical and ethical challenges for the hospital psychiatrist. Patients typically come to the hospital in a state of severe medical compromise. Common difficulties in the period of acute medical stabilization include assessment of decision-making capacity and the right to decline treatment, as well as legally complex decisions pertaining to administering artificial nutrition over the patient's objection. Following acute medical stabilization, the psychiatric consultant must decide whether psychiatric hospitalization for continued treatment is indicated, and if so, whether involuntary hospitalization is indicated. The standard of care in these situations is unclear. Pragmatic issues such as lack of appropriate facilities for specialized treatment are common. If involuntary hospitalization is not approved or not pursued, there may be difficulty in determining whether, when, and how to involve palliative care consultants to guide further management. These cases are complex and largely reside in a medico-legal and ethical gray area. This article discusses the difficulties associated with these cases and supports a growing body of literature emphasizing moderation and harm-reduction in patients with SE-AN. Physician-assisted dying (PAD) is also discussed.

Models of care for eating disorders: findings from a rapid review

BACKGROUND

Delayed diagnosis, gaps in services and subsequent delays in specialist care and treatment lead to poorer health outcomes for individuals with eating disorders (EDs) and drive significant government healthcare expenditure. Given the significant disease burden associated with EDs, it is imperative that current implementation research is summarised to identify gaps in care and enable refinement for optimal patient outcomes. This review aimed to provide an updated synthesis on models of care for EDs in developed healthcare systems.

METHODS

This paper was conducted as part of a series of Rapid Reviews (RRs) to be published in a special series in the Journal of Eating Disorders. To provide a current and rigorous review, peer-reviewed articles published in the English language between 2009 and 2021 across three databases (ScienceDirect, PubMed and Ovid/Medline) were searched, with priority given to higher level evidence (e.g., meta-analyses, large population studies, Randomised Control Trials (RCTs)). The current review synthesises data from included studies investigating models of care for people with EDs.

RESULTS

Sixty-three studies (4.5% of the original RR) were identified, which included several diagnostic populations, the most common being Anorexia Nervosa (AN) (30.51%). Across EDs, specialist care was found to improve patient outcomes, with many patients effectively being treated in outpatient or day programs with multi-disciplinary teams, without the need for lengthy inpatient hospitalisation. Few studies investigated the interaction of different ED services (e.g., inpatient, community services, primary care), however stepped care models emerged as a promising approach to integrate ED services in a targeted and cost-effective way. Issues surrounding low treatment uptake, underdiagnosis, long waiting lists and limited hospital beds were also evident across services.

CONCLUSION

Findings suggested further research into alternatives to traditional inpatient care is needed, with partial and shorter 'hospitalisations' emerging as promising avenues. Additionally, to tackle ongoing resource issues and ensure timely detection and treatment of EDs, further research into novel alternatives, such as active waiting lists or a greater role for primary care clinicians is needed. This paper is part of a larger Rapid Review series carried out to guide Australia's National Eating Disorders Research and Translation Strategy 2021-2031. Rapid reviews aim to thoroughly summarise an area of research over a short time period, typically to help with policymaking in this area. This Rapid Review summarises the evidence relating to how we care for people with eating disorders in Western healthcare systems. Topics covered include inpatient/hospital care, residential care, day programs, outpatient/community care, and referral pathways. Findings suggested specialist eating disorder services may enhance detection, referral, and patient care. Stepped care models presented as a cost-effective approach which may help with linkage between different eating disorder services. There was a trend towards shorter hospital stays and approaches which allow for greater connection with the community, such as day programs. Evidence was also found of treatment delays, due to system issues (long waiting lists, lack of accurate assessment and diagnosis) and patient-related barriers (stigma, recognition). Upskilling and involving primary care clinicians in diagnosis and referral as part of a stepped care model may help to address some of these concerns. Further efforts to improve mental health literacy and de-stigmatise help-seeking for eating disorders are needed.

Treatment response in children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa: a naturalistic, case-control study

PURPOSE

Although a few recent articles describe adults with treatment-resistant anorexia nervosa (TR-AN), no study addresses the specific features of subjects not responding to treatment in the developmental age. This study reports on the clinical and psychopathological variables that distinguish children and adolescents who did not respond to treatment (here "TR-AN") from good-outcome controls, in a multidisciplinary hospital treatment setting.

METHODS

Naturalistic, case-control study conducted on individuals showing lack of response to treatment and good-outcome controls. TR-AN was defined as two or more incomplete admissions and no complete admissions, consistently with studies in adults. Good-outcome was defined as complete first admission, availability for follow-up visit after 6 months, and maintaining at follow-up a %BMI > 70% in the absence of binging or purging in the preceding 3 months. Psychopathological (Eating Disorders Inventory-3 EDI-3; Beck Depression Inventory-II), clinical, and treatment variables at admission were compared. Significant differences in the univariate analyses were included in an exploratory binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients (30 TR-AN, 46 good-outcome AN controls) were enrolled (mean age 14.9 ± 1.9 years, F = 94.7%). TR-AN individuals had a higher age at admission and higher EDI-3 Eating Disorder Risk (EDRC) scores, were treated less frequently with a nasogastric tube (NGT), and achieved a lower BMI improvement at discharge than good-outcome controls. A predictive model for TR-AN status was found (X² = 19.116; Nagelkerke-R² = 0.478, p < 0.001), and age at admission (OR = 0.460, p = 0.019), EDI-3 EDRC (OR = 0.938, p = 0.043), and NGT (OR = 8.003, p = 0.019) were associated with a TR-AN status.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report on the psychopathological and clinical characteristics of children and adolescents not responding to treatment. These patients showed higher age and eating disorder scores, and were less frequently fed with NGT than controls. Despite the multiple incomplete admissions of our subjects, the short included follow-up limits the possibility for direct comparisons with adult samples of treatment-resistant patients. Thus, the specific features of children and adolescents with TR-AN should be assessed in longitudinal studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III, Observational, case-control study.

Recognising and managing eating disorders in the emergency department

Compared with other mental health conditions or psychiatric presentations, such as self-harm, which may be seen in emergency departments, eating disorders can seem relatively rare. However, they have the highest mortality across the spectrum of mental health, with high rates of medical complications and risk, ranging from hypoglycaemia and electrolyte disturbances to cardiac abnormalities. People with eating disorders may not disclose their diagnosis when they see healthcare professionals. This can be due to denial of the condition itself, a wish to avoid treatment for a condition which may be valued, or because of the stigma attached to mental health. As a result their diagnosis can be easily missed by healthcare professionals and thus the prevalence is underappreciated. This article presents eating disorders to emergency and acute medicine practitioners from a new perspective using the combined emergency, psychiatric, nutrition and psychology lens. It focuses on the most serious acute pathology which can develop from the more common presentations; highlights indicators of hidden disease; discusses screening; suggests key acute management considerations and explores the challenge of mental capacity in a group of high-risk patients who, with the right treatment, can make a good recovery.

Severe and Enduring Anorexia Nervosa and Futility: A Time for Every Purpose?

The concept of futility in the treatment of individuals with severe and enduring anorexia nervosa remains controversial and has significant legal and ethical considerations. For those who have been unremittingly ill for 8 to 12 years, full recovery, although possible, is unlikely, and alternatives to traditional, active treatment must be explored. The harm reduction model, palliative care, and end-of-life care are explored as meaningful and reasonable treatments for this population. Landmark cases demonstrating the legal and ethical controversy of such treatment are explored.

The 17-year outcome of 62 adult patients with longstanding eating disorders-A prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Although studies with short and intermediate observation time suggest favorable outcomes in regard to eating disorders (ED), there is limited knowledge on long-term outcomes. The present study aimed to investigate the 5- and 17-year outcome of adult patients with longstanding ED who were previously admitted to an inpatient ED unit. ED diagnoses and recovery, comorbid and general psychopathology, along with psychosocial functioning and quality of life were evaluated.

METHOD

Sixty-two of the 80 living patients (78% response rate) with anorexia nervosa (n = 23), bulimia nervosa (n = 25), or other specified feeding or eating disorders (n = 14) at admission were evaluated. The mean age at the 17-year follow-up point was 46.2 (SD 7.5). The Eating Disorder Examination (EDE) was used to assess recovery. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.) and self-report instruments provided additional information.

RESULTS

There was a significant reduction in patients fulfilling criteria for an ED from the 5-year to the 17-year follow-up, meanwhile recovery rates were stable. A total of 29% of the patients were fully recovered and 21% were partially recovered while the remaining 50% had not recovered. No significant changes were found in any self-report measures and more than 70% had a comorbid disorder at both assessments.

DISCUSSION

The findings illustrate the protracted nature of ED for adults with longstanding ED. A long illness duration prior to treatment is unfortunate and early detection and treatment is advisable.

Compulsory treatments in eating disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The aims of this systematic review and meta-analysis are to provide a summary of the current literature concerning compulsory treatments in patients with eating disorders (ED) and to understand whether compulsorily and involuntarily treated patients differ in terms of baseline characteristics and treatment outcomes.

METHODS

Relevant articles were identified following the PRISMA guidelines by searching the following terms: "treatment refusal", "forced feeding", "compulsory/coercive/involuntary/forced treatment/admission", "eating disorders", "feeding and eating disorders", "anorexia nervosa", "bulimia nervosa". Research was restricted to articles concerning humans and published between 1975 and 2020 in English.

RESULTS

Out of 905 articles retrieved, nine were included for the analyses allowing the comparisons between 242 compulsorily and 738 voluntarily treated patients. Mean body mass index (BMI) was slightly lower in patients compelled to treatments. Mean illness duration, BMI at discharge and BMI variation showed no significant differences between the two groups. Average length of hospitalization was 3 weeks longer among compulsory-treated patients, but this did not result in a higher increase in BMI. No significant risk difference on mortality was estimated (three studies).

CONCLUSIONS

Compulsory treatments are usually intended for patients having worse baseline conditions than voluntary ones. Those patients are unlikely to engage in treatments without being compelled but, after the treatments, albeit with longer hospitalisations, they do achieve similar outcomes. Therefore, we can conclude that forcing patients to treatment is a conceivable option.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, systematic review and meta-analysis.

A longitudinal case series of IM ketamine for patients with severe and enduring eating disorders and comorbid treatment-resistant depression

Severe and enduring eating disorders (EDs) have the highest mortality rate of all psychiatric illnesses (Arch Gen Psychiatry, 2011, 68, 724), especially when comorbid with treatment‐resistant depression (TRD) (Psychiatr Res, 2016, 244, 45). We report on four patients with enduring EDs and TRD treated with repeat ketamine over 12 + months, showing improvement in depression with only modest changes in ED symptoms.

A network investigation of core symptoms and pathways across duration of illness using a comprehensive cognitive-behavioral model of eating-disorder symptoms

BACKGROUND

In the past decade, network analysis (NA) has been applied to psychopathology to quantify complex symptom relationships. This statistical technique has demonstrated much promise, as it provides researchers the ability to identify relationships across many symptoms in one model and can identify central symptoms that may predict important clinical outcomes. However, network models are highly influenced by node selection, which could limit the generalizability of findings. The current study (N = 6850) tests a comprehensive, cognitive-behavioral model of eating-disorder symptoms using items from two, widely used measures (Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire and Eating Pathology Symptoms Inventory).

METHODS

We used NA to identify central symptoms and compared networks across the duration of illness (DOI), as chronicity is one of the only known predictors of poor outcome in eating disorders (EDs).

RESULTS

Our results suggest that eating when not hungry and feeling fat were the most central symptoms across groups. There were no significant differences in network structure across DOI, meaning the connections between symptoms remained relatively consistent. However, differences emerged in central symptoms, such that cognitive symptoms related to overvaluation of weight/shape were central in individuals with shorter DOI, and behavioral central symptoms emerged more in medium and long DOI.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results have important implications for the treatment of individuals with enduring EDs, as they may have a different core, maintaining symptoms. Additionally, our findings highlight the importance of using comprehensive, theoretically- or empirically-derived models for NA.

The impact of duration of illness on treatment nonresponse and drop-out: Exploring the relevance of enduring eating disorder concept

OBJECTIVE

There are no generally accepted definitions or markers of treatment nonresponse in eating disorders (EDs). The aim of this paper was to examine how the duration of illness and other potential prognostic markers impacted on nonresponse and drop-out from treatment across different EDs subtypes.

METHODS

A total sample of 1199 consecutively treated patients with EDs, according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fifth edition criteria, participated in this study. Kaplan-Meier curves were calculated for each ED diagnosis in which the probability of recovery was plotted against the duration of illness.

RESULTS

Full remission was more likely for people with binge eating disorder (BED; 47.4%) and anorexia nervosa (AN; 43.9%) compared to bulimia nervosa (BN; 25.2%) and other specified feeding and EDs (OSFED; 23.2%). The cut-off points for the duration of the illness related with high likelihoods of poor response was 6-8 years among OSFED, 12-14 years among AN and BN and 20-21 years among BED. Other variables predicting nonresponse included dysfunctional personality traits.

CONCLUSIONS

Nonresponse to treatment is associated with duration of illness which is in turn associated with poor response to previous treatment. However, there was no evidence for staging the illness using specific duration of illness criteria. Nevertheless, the shorter temporal trajectory for OSFED suggests that early interventions may be of importance for this group.

Relationship between eating disorder duration and treatment outcome: Systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis examine the contribution of duration to treatment outcome for eating disorders.

METHOD

Studies (n = 31) were identified that examined associations (r) between duration and 45 different outcomes. We were unable to extract r for seven studies (9 outcomes) and extracted r for 36 outcomes across 24 studies (2,349 participants). Indicators of treatment outcome were heterogeneous and thus a series of different meta-analyses, aimed at increasing homogeneity, were conducted.

RESULTS

First, we examined the average effect size for one primary eating disorder related outcome from each of the 24 studies. There was no association between duration and treatment outcome (r = .05, 95% CI: -.03:.13), with high heterogeneity. Second, we conducted three sub-group analyses to explore possible sources of heterogeneity (diagnosis: anorexia nervosa versus bulimia nervosa; nature of the outcome: binary versus continuous; or type of outcome: binary indicator of recovery, eating disorder psychopathology, weight gain). There was no significant moderation or associations between duration and outcome (ranging from .02-.08), with low to medium heterogeneity. Third, two stand-alone analyses examined outcomes related to weight gain (n = 8) and eating disorder psychopathology (n = 5), with nonsignificant rs of .23/-.06, respectively. High levels of heterogeneity were present.

DISCUSSION

Duration did not influence treatment outcome across any of our meta-analyses. Increasing homogeneity and power will allow more stable estimates of the impact of duration on outcome to be calculated; to this end, future treatment studies should include outcome related to weight gain (anorexia nervosa) and improvements in eating disorder psychopathology.

Severe and enduring anorexia nervosa: Update and observations about the current clinical reality

Several objectives underlie the current article. First, to review historical diagnostic issues and clinical strategies for treating SE-AN. Second, to provide an overview of recent evidence informed strategies and clinical innovations for the treatment of SE-AN. Third, based on the authors' collective clinical and research experience, we offer eight observations that we believe capture the current clinical experience of patients with SE-AN. Some of these observations represent empirically testable hypotheses, but all are designed to generate a meaningful discussion about the treatment of this group of individuals with eating disorders. Finally, we hope to call clinicians, scientists, professional organizations, advocates, and policy makers to action to attend to critical issues related to the care of individuals with SE-AN. We believe that an international discussion could clarify areas of need for these patients and identify opportunities for clinical innovation that would enhance the lives of individuals with SE-AN and their families.

Treatment interventions for Severe and Enduring Eating Disorders: Systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Approximately 20% of people with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) and 10% with Bulimia Nervosa (BN) will eventually develop a long-standing illness. Although there is no set definition for Severe and Enduring eating Disorder (SE-ED), the common criteria relate to a long duration of the disorder and a number of unsuccessful treatment attempts. Research evidence for treatment of SE-ED remains limited, thus the objective of this systematic review was to describe different treatment interventions and their effects on SE-ED-related outcomes.

METHOD

A systematic search for quantitative treatment studies of adult participants with SE-ED was conducted in June 2019 (PROSPERO, CRD42018115802) with no restriction on eating disorder type. Altogether, 2,938 studies were included for title and abstract screening.

RESULTS

After systematic searches and article screening, 23 studies (3 randomized controlled trials, 3 open-label studies, 8 naturalistic follow-up studies, 8 case series and case studies, and 1 partially blinded pilot study) were included in the analysis and data extraction. Methodological quality of the included studies was generally low. Inpatient treatment programs (n = 5) were effective in short-term symptom reduction, but long-term results were inconsistent. Outpatient and day-hospital treatment programs (n = 5) seemed promising for symptom reduction. Drug interventions (n = 5) showed some benefits, especially as adjuvant therapies. Brain stimulation (n = 6) led to improvements in depressive symptoms. Other treatments (n = 2) produced mixed results.

DISCUSSION

This is the first systematic review to examine all of the different treatment interventions that have been studied in SE-ED. The results will inform future interventions in research and clinical practice.

Subjective evaluation of outpatient treatment for adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa

BACKGROUND

The current study investigates determinants of treatment evaluation by adolescent outpatients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and the accordance with their parents' and psychotherapists' evaluation.

SAMPLING AND METHODS

The sample included 50 female adolescent outpatients (mean age: 16.9 ± 1.8) with AN (DSM-IV). They were randomly assigned to either cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) or dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT). Before (T1) and after treatment (T2) diagnostic interviews as well as self-report questionnaires were administered measuring eating disorder-specific and general psychopathology. The subjective evaluation of the therapy was assessed by a self-report questionnaire. Data on the evaluation of treatment of 42 parents were considered as well as treatment evaluations of the therapists for 48 patients.

RESULTS

Our results revealed significant correlations of treatment satisfaction between parents and therapists, whereas patients and therapists as well as patients and parents did not agree in their treatment evaluation. The change in body mass index (BMI) was a significant predictor of the patients' treatment satisfaction.

CONCLUSION

Adolescent patients displaying high severity of AN at the beginning of treatment put little emphasis on the importance of body weight even after treatment. Satisfaction ratings of this special group of patients could be heavily distorted and have to be interpreted carefully.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, randomized controlled trial.

Severity and Endurance in Eating Disorders: An Exploration of a Clinical Sample From Chile

INTRODUCTION

One in five patients with eating disorders (EDs) may take a lasting course. It has been proposed that this enduring group exhibits increased severity, such as low treatment response, severe symptomatology, and poor quality of life. However, there is no consensus defining this group. Moreover, most of the literature comes from high-income societies and may not apply to developing countries.

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the association between endurance (length of ED) and severity (previous treatments, hospitalizations, medical complications, symptomatology and clinical impairment) in individuals with EDs from Chile. In addition, it aimed to explore the association between endurance and delays seeking specialized treatment.

METHODS

Forty-one women with EDs (16 with anorexia nervosa, 11 with bulimia nervosa, 10 with binge eating disorder and 4 with other specified EDs) completed a social-demographic survey, the Eating Disorders Examination Questionnaire, and the Clinical Impairment Assessment. Also, Body Mass Index, length of ED, and complications were retrieved from participants' medical records. Spearman correlation coefficient and linear regression were used to explore the association between length of ED and measures of severity and treatment seeking behavior.

RESULTS

There was no significant association between endurance (length of ED) and measures of severity. There was a significant association between length of ED and delays seeking specialized treatment (r_s=0.72; p<0.01). Regression indicated that for each month in delay visiting a specialized ED treatment team, the ED duration increased by 0.87 months (F(1,38)=75.93; p<0.01; R²= 0.66).

DISCUSSION

The findings suggest that in developing countries, where specialized treatment access is not widespread, defining SEED solely by the length of illness may not be clinically significant, and other criteria (e.g., timely access to evidence-based treatments) should be considered.

Futility in adolescent anorexia nervosa and the question of withdrawal of care

Anorexia nervosa is a chronic disorder of children, adolescents and young people typically characterised by self-starvation and resistance to interventions. Staff dealing with these young people frequently question patient motivations and the ethics of interventions that may be applied against the wishes of patients. The question of withdrawal of care in a subgroup of these patients has been raised. Futility is not an appropriate response to adolescent anorexia nervosa, and treatment withdrawal is not appropriate for a disorder in which most patients can be expected to recover, in which opposition to treatment is a characteristic of the disorder and in which brain dysfunction is precipitated by severe malnutrition.

Perspectives on Involuntary Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Involuntary treatment of anorexia nervosa is an option in cases in which the patient's life or other people's lives are at risk or, in some countries, to prevent the deterioration of the illness. Involuntary treatment is often regarded as controversial and has been intensely debated, although typically with few references to documented knowledge. This paper provides a research perspective of the topic by examine data in the field of the involuntary treatment of anorexia nervosa to pinpoint present knowledge as well as areas demanding clinical action or research attention. The prevalence of involuntary treatment in general as well as specific measures is described and possible early markers of patients at risk of involuntary treatment are discussed. Studies including patients' perspectives of involuntary treatment show the complexity of this treatment, its initiation, and its consequences. To qualify future discussions, improve current practice, and minimize involuntary treatment in general as well as on an individual level, at least four areas need attention: (i) the present specific symptoms of anorexia nervosa and their imminent consequences, (ii) illness history, (iii) overall psychiatric symptoms and general functioning, and (iv) contextual sphere of the patient. In particular, the last two require attention from both clinicians and researchers. Furthermore, critical evaluation of the attitudes of both patients and health care professionals toward each other and the treatment is recommended.

Beyond the Revolving Door: Long-Term Lived Experience of Eating Disorders and Specialist Service Provision

In this study, we undertook a narrative analysis of participants' long-term lived experience of eating disorders and specialist service provision. Eight participants were recruited with service experience across five National Health Service (NHS) Trusts in the United Kingdom. All participants had a minimum of 10 years self-reported experience living with an eating disorder. The data are presented across different temporal stages that demonstrate the development of participants' self-construct in relation to their first contact with specialist services, what had happened in their lives for this to become necessary, and their current relationships with services, before exploring what participants need from services to help them feel heard going forward. Findings suggest that current methods of service delivery result in delayed and inappropriate supports and a consequent "battling" against professionals, which can provide an obstacle to compassionate and collaborative working and promote "revolving door" experiences.

[Efficacy and safety of medicinal cannabis: results of the CaPRis study]

In the 1990s, the endocannabinoid system was discovered as part of the human physiology. Since then, the effects of cannabis as a medicine have been researched more systematically. To summarize the scientific knowledge, the German Federal Ministry of Health commissioned an expertise.The project "Cannabis: Potential and Risks: a Scientific Analysis" (CaPRis), which started in 2016, aimed at analyzing the potential of medicinal cannabis and the risks of recreational cannabis use. A search of systematic reviews (SRs) and randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted in five international databases (publication date: 2006-2017). For the medical use of cannabis 16 SRs (of 186 RCTs) were included from a global search and nine further RCTs were comprised from a de novo search. All studies were methodologically assessed.Evidence for the efficacy of cannabis medicine (given as an adjunct to other medication) was found in patients with chronic pain and spasticity due to multiple sclerosis. Benefits were also found for appetite stimulation, improvement of nausea, and weight gain in patients with cancer, HIV/AIDS or in palliative care. Effects were often small. For other physical or mental disorders, only few or no controlled human studies are available. Adverse effects of cannabis medicine are often reported; severe adverse effects were mentioned in single cases only.To provide reliable treatment recommendations for clinicians and patients, more large-sized RCTs with follow-up assessments, consistent outcome measures, and active comparisons are needed.

Optimizing treatment outcomes in adolescents with eating disorders: The potential role of cognitive behavioral therapy

OBJECTIVE

While family-based treatment (FBT) is the leading psychological therapy for adolescents with eating disorders, it is not universally effective or suitable. This study considered the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy for eating disorders (CBT-ED) in adolescent cases where FBT was not fully effective or where it was not applicable to the individual case.

METHOD

A transdiagnostic case series of 54 adolescents with eating disorders (52% with anorexia nervosa; 31% with atypical anorexia nervosa) were offered CBT-ED following previous treatment using FBT or following FBT being judged inappropriate. Pre-post outcomes were assessed using standardized measures of eating attitudes and clinical impairment, and weight change was measured for the patients with anorexia nervosa.

RESULTS

The rate of attrition was similar to that found in other CBT-ED studies (38.9% of patients who started CBT-ED; 59.3% of those offered CBT-ED). The patients showed positive outcomes on all measures, regardless of whether they had previously been treated with FBT. Effect sizes were moderate to large. Severity and duration of the eating disorder were unrelated to outcomes.

DISCUSSION

CBT-ED merits consideration as a second-line approach for adolescents with eating disorders when FBT has not been effective or could not be applied. There is no evidence that previous failure to benefit from FBT impairs outcome from subsequent CBT-ED, and severity and duration of the eating disorder did not influence outcome. Treatment matching for adolescents with eating disorders might consider the role of previous treatment outcomes and family availability in determining optimum treatment strategies for individuals.

How effective and safe is medical cannabis as a treatment of mental disorders? A systematic review

We conducted a review of systematic reviews (SRs) and randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) to analyze efficacy and safety of cannabis-based medication in patients with mental disorders. Five data bases were systematically searched (2006-August 2018); 4 SRs (of 11 RCTs) and 14 RCTs (1629 participants) were included. Diagnoses were: dementia, cannabis and opioid dependence, psychoses/schizophrenia, general social anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, anorexia nervosa, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and Tourette`s disorder. Outcome variables were too heterogeneous to conduct a  meta-analysis. A narrative synthesis method was applied. The study quality was assessed using the risk-of-bias tool and SIGN-checklists. THC- and CBD-based medicines, given as adjunct to pharmaco- and psychotherapy, were associated with improvements of several symptoms of mental disorders, but not with remission. Side effects occurred, but severe adverse effects were mentioned in single cases only. In order to provide reliable treatment recommendations, more and larger RCTs with follow-up assessments, consistent outcome measures and active comparisons are needed.

Advances in the treatment of anorexia nervosa: a review of established and emerging interventions

BACKGROUND

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a disabling, deadly and costly mental disorder. Until recently, treatment recommendations were based on expert opinion and limited evidence. The aim of this systematic review is to synthesise recent evidence on established and emerging AN treatments and to forecast trends for future developments.

METHODS

We systematically review trials of established treatments and associated process outcome studies from the last 5 years, published since a previous review in this journal. 'Established' treatments were those that are widely used in AN, recommended by guidelines and/or have been tested in at least one large randomised controlled trial. Secondly, we summarise emerging treatments for AN, i.e. those that have only been (or are currently being) tested in proof-of concept, feasibility or pilot trials.

RESULTS

We identified 19 published trials of established treatments (15 of high or moderate quality), mostly assessing psychological therapies (n = 17). We also found 11 published trials of emerging treatments, and a total of 34 registered, as yet unpublished trials. Promising emerging treatments include cognitive remediation therapy, exposure therapy and non-invasive neuromodulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence generation on the treatment of AN has dramatically accelerated, with our understanding of the role of family-based approaches for adolescents more nuanced and a range of psychological approaches available for the treatment of adults. Evidence on emerging treatments and from forthcoming trials suggests that there is a shift towards more targeted brain-based interventions. Future studies need to focus on elucidating mechanisms of action of treatments and what works best for whom.

Long-Term Follow-up Study of MRI-Guided Bilateral Anterior Capsulotomy in Patients With Refractory Anorexia Nervosa

BACKGROUND

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is one of the most challenging psychiatric disorders to treat. The poor clinical outcomes warrant novel treatments for AN, especially in severe and persistent cases.

OBJECTIVE

To explore the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging-guided bilateral anterior capsulotomy in the treatment of refractory AN.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients diagnosed with refractory AN who underwent capsulotomy completed this 3-yr follow-up study. Outcomes included body mass index (BMI) and results from a series of psychiatric scales (for obsessive, depressive, and anxious symptoms) that were implemented at baseline (presurgery), and 1 mo, 1 yr, and 3 yr after surgery.

RESULTS

Compared to presurgical levels, BMI increased significantly at 1-yr and 3-yr follow-ups. Compared to presurgery scores, psychiatric scale scores were significantly improved at 1-mo postsurgery, and continued to remain low at the 1-yr and 3-yr follow-ups. In addition, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) scores were in the normal range during the long-term follow-up. The most common short-term side effects included urinary incontinence (n = 7), sleep disorders (n = 8), and fatigue (n = 6). Long-term complications included disinhibition (n = 6), memory loss (n = 3), and lethargy (n = 4). No patient in this study experienced death or disability.

CONCLUSION

Capsulotomy enabled patients with refractory AN to normalize their weight, especially those in life-threatening conditions. While it appears to be an acceptable life-saving treatment, it is indicated only when fulfilling strict criteria given its complications and irreversibility.

Affective temperaments in anorexia nervosa: The relevance of depressive and anxious traits

BACKGROUND

Affective temperaments have been so far understudied in anorexia nervosa (AN) despite the relevance of personality and both affective and anxious comorbidity with regard to vulnerability, course, and outcome of this deadly disorder.

METHODS

Ninety-eight female inpatients diagnosed with AN and 131 healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled in this study and completed the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego Autoquestionnaire (TEMPS-A) in addition to assessments of eating psychopathology, depression, and anxiety.

RESULTS

AN patients and HCs differed in all affective temperaments. The diagnostic subtypes of AN differed as well with binge-purging individuals being more cyclothymic and anxious than those with restricting-type AN. TEMPS-A scores correlated with body mass index and eating psychopathology but not with duration of illness. Concerning comorbidity, grater scores on the depressive and lower scores on the hyperthymic temperaments were found in depressed patients. Those who had either an anxious or irritable temperament were significantly more diagnosed with an anxious disorder than those who did not show this temperament. When logistic regression was performed, high depressive/low hyperthymic and high irritable/anxious traits resulted to be associated with depressive and anxious comorbidity, respectively, independently of confounding factors.

LIMITATIONS

Cross-sectional design, some patients on medications, few baseline clinical differences between diagnostic subtypes, no other personality assessments.

CONCLUSIONS

An affective continuum strongly associated with mood and anxious comorbidity emerged in AN. Such an evaluation could have several research and clinical implications given the need of improving treatment individualization and early interventions for such a complex disorder.

The patient experience of illness, treatment, and change, during intensive community treatment for severe anorexia nervosa

This study explores experiences of intensive community treatment, illness, and change among patients with severe anorexia nervosa (sAN), particularly seeking to understand the processes involved in change and inability to change. A qualitative design with purposive semi-stratified sampling, using semi-structured interviews and interpretive phenomenological analysis, investigated in detail the experiences of five participants. Participants all had sAN at the start of treatment and represented a spectrum of outcomes from deterioration to full recovery. Six super-ordinate themes emerged from the analysis: treatment experience, function of anorexia, self-criticism versus self-acceptance, isolation versus connection, hopelessness versus hope, and stuckness versus change. Results describe the valued function of the illness, barriers to change, the lengthy struggle for change, and how this can be supported by intensive community-based treatment. Necessary ingredients in the process of change, arising from the analysis, are proposed. We conclude that the experiences of these patients reflect the particular functions of AN for each individual, and that both clinical deterioration and full recovery can occur with prolonged intensive community treatment.

Labeling and defining severe and enduring anorexia nervosa: A systematic review and critical analysis

OBJECTIVE

With anorexia nervosa (AN) having various presentations, attention has been directed towards particularly durable forms of the condition in both research and clinical contexts. A major hindrance in terms of advancing the field is the inconsistent labeling and defining of this subgroup. This has two implications; first, the inconsistent recruitment of participants when researching this sample, and second, the misdiagnosing of patients who may or may not have a durable course of the disease. The current research had the purpose of providing an overview of the current labels and criteria used for defining cases of severe and enduring AN, and critically analysing the implications of these findings.

METHOD

In accordance with PRISMA guidelines, a literature search was conducted using four electronic databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Web of Science and Scopus) in order to identify 32 records that met the standards stipulated by the criteria. Data extraction included explicit labeling, the definition or criteria used to describe the subgroup, along with participant age and study design.

RESULTS

It was found that the terms chronic and severe and enduring were the most commonly used adjectives when referring to this subgroup. In terms of criteria, illness duration and the number of previously failed treatment attempts were the most common defining features within the literature.

DISCUSSION

It is the aim of the authors to inspire further research into what is the most appropriate label and defining features for the subgroup in order to facilitate a better approach and outcome for the individuals affected.

Characterizing severe and enduring anorexia nervosa: An empirical approach

Targeted approaches for the treatment of severe and enduring anorexia nervosa (SE-AN) have been recommended, but there is no consensus definition of SE-AN to inform research and clinical practice. This study aimed to take initial steps toward developing an empirically based definition of SE-AN by characterizing associations among putative indicators of severity and chronicity in eating disorders. Patients with AN (N = 355) completed interviews and questionnaires at treatment admission and discharge; height and weight were assessed to calculate body mass index (BMI). Structural equation mixture modeling was used to test whether associations among potential indicators of SE-AN (illness duration, treatment history, BMI, binge eating, purging, quality-of-life) formed distinct subgroups, a single group with one or more dimensions, or a combination of subgroups and dimensions. A three-factor (dimensional), two-profile (categorical) mixture model provided the best fit to the data. Factor 1 included eating disorder behaviors; Factor 2 comprised quality-of-life domains; Factor 3 was characterized by illness duration, number of hospitalizations, and admission BMI. Profiles differed on eating disorder behaviors and quality-of-life, but not on indicators of chronicity or BMI. Factor scores, but not profile membership, predicted outcome at discharge from treatment. Data suggest that patients with AN can be classified on the basis of eating disorder behaviors and quality-of-life, but there was no evidence for a chronic subgroup of AN. Rather, indices of chronicity varied dimensionally within each class. Given that current definitions of SE-AN rely on illness duration, these findings have implications for research and clinical practice.

A comprehensive review of psychodynamic treatments for eating disorders

PURPOSE

To comprehensively review the existing literature on the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapies in eating disorders (EDs) and to stimulate both debate and research on this topic.

METHODS

Online and hand searches were conducted to identify papers published between 1980 and 2015 on psychodynamic treatments delivered to adults with anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge eating disorder (BED).

RESULTS

A total of 47 studies were finally included in this review. Fifteen studies were available for AN, 9 for BN, 12 for BED, and 11 for samples with mixed diagnoses. Several methodological flaws emerged, but overall psychodynamic interventions showed promising results at the end of treatment and follow-up, when available.

CONCLUSIONS

The body of literature on psychodynamic treatments is sparse and sometimes methodologically questionable; nevertheless, current data provide support to the effectiveness of these interventions, particularly for AN. However, both a defined approach (focus, themes, and techniques) and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are warranted to clarify the effectiveness of psychodynamic psychotherapies.