Women with anorexia nervosa should not be treated with estrogen or birth control pills in a bone-sparing effect

A comprehensive review of the new FIGO classification of ovulatory disorders

BACKGROUND

The World Health Organization (WHO) system for the classification of disorders of ovulation was produced 50 years ago and, by international consensus, has been updated by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO).

OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE

This review outlines in detail each component of the FIGO HyPO-P (hypothalamic, pituitary, ovarian, PCOS) classification with a concise description of each cause, and thereby provides a systematic method for diagnosis and management.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the published articles in the PubMed database in the English-language literature until October 2022, containing the keywords ovulatory disorders; ovulatory dysfunction; anovulation, and each subheading in the FIGO HyPO-P classification. We did not include abstracts or conference proceedings because the data are usually difficult to assess.

OUTCOMES

We present the most comprehensive review of all disorders of ovulation, published systematically according to the logical FIGO classification.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS

Improving the diagnosis of an individual's ovulatory dysfunction will significantly impact clinical practice by enabling healthcare practitioners to make a precise diagnosis and plan appropriate management.

Pharmacotherapy in anorexia nervosa: A Danish nation-wide register-based study

OBJECTIVE

No medications have been indicated for the treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN). Nonetheless, individuals with AN are frequently treated pharmacologically. The present study maps nationwide pharmacotherapy two years before to five years after first AN diagnosis.

METHODS

We identified all medication prescriptions in a national register-based study of patients with a first diagnosis of AN between 1998 and 2011, and age and gender matched controls (1:10). Medication classes were compared using odds ratios (OR) between patients and controls; between patients below and above 15 years; between patients with and without comorbidity; and between those diagnosed before or after 2005.

RESULTS

The odds of pharmacotherapy were increased in patients for all classes of medication except a small residual class. Highest odds were found for alimentary (OR 2.8, p < 0.001) and psychopharmacological (OR 5.5, p < 0.001) medication. The former peaked one year prior to first diagnosis and the latter one year after. Older patients had increased risk of almost all medication classes with cardiovascular medication showing a fivefold OR (p < 0.001). Patients with psychiatric comorbidity had a threefold OR for psychopharmacological medication (p < 0.001) compared to patients without psychiatric comorbidity. Calendar year showed few and small differences.

CONCLUSION

The extended use of all medication classes both prior to and after first diagnosis of AN highlights the severe cause and complexity of AN. The results encourage clinical caution of pharmacotherapy, highlight the need for pharmacotherapy guidelines for AN, and emphasize the urgency of research in pharmacotherapy in AN.

Bone health in functional hypothalamic amenorrhea: What the endocrinologist needs to know

In the original definition by Klinefelter, Albright and Griswold, the expression "hypothalamic hypoestrogenism" was used to describe functional hypothalamic amenorrhoea (FHA). Given the well-known effects of estrogens on bone, the physiopathology of skeletal fragility in this condition may appear self-explanatory. Actually, a growing body of evidence has clarified that estrogens are only part of the story. FHA occurs in eating disorders, overtraining, and during psychological or physical stress. Despite some specific characteristics which differentiate these conditions, relative energy deficiency is a common trigger that initiates the metabolic and endocrine derangements contributing to bone loss. Conversely, data on the impact of amenorrhoea on bone density or microarchitecture are controversial, and reduced bone mass is observed even in patients with preserved menstrual cycle. Consistently, oral estrogen-progestin combinations have not proven beneficial on bone density of amenorrheic women. Low bone density is a highly prevalent finding in these patients and entails an increased risk of stress or fragility fractures, and failure to achieve peak bone mass and target height in young girls. Pharmacological treatments have been studied, including androgens, insulin-like growth factor-1, bisphosphonates, denosumab, teriparatide, leptin, but none of them is currently approved for use in FHA. A timely screening for bone complications and a multidisciplinary, customized approach aiming to restore energy balance, ensure adequate protein, calcium and vitamin D intake, and reverse the detrimental metabolic-endocrine changes typical of this condition, should be the preferred approach until further studies are available.

Does Supplemental Estrogen Improve Bone-Related Symptoms of Female Athlete Triad in Female Athletes? A Critically Appraised Topic

Clinical Scenario: Due to the Female Athlete Triad (Triad) being a 3-pronged syndrome, treatments can vary depending on the symptoms that clinicians focus on. With reproductive and bone health compromised, assessment and recovery methods include monitoring menstrual regularity and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans. Low levels of estrogen have demonstrated negative effects on bone mineral density (BMD). Clinical Question: Does supplemental estrogen improve BMD in athletes with Female Athlete Triad symptoms? Summary of Key Findings: Supplemental estrogen does improve BMD with estrogen patches demonstrating increased improvement compared with oral contraceptive pills. Clinical Bottom Line: Restoration of regular menstruation, improvement of BMD, and ensuring optimal energy levels is the best approach for treating Triad symptoms. Transdermal patches are a new treatment option that address both menstrual function and BMD but still require further research. Strength of Recommendation: Available studies demonstrated a level 2 evidence for supplemental estrogen (oral contraceptive pills and estrogen patches) providing improvements for bone health related to the Triad.

Maternal Separation in ABA Rats Promotes Cell Proliferation in the Dentate Gyrus of the Hippocampus

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss. Several studies support the idea that life stressors during the postnatal period could play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AN, underlying the multifactorial etiology of this disease. The activity-based anorexia (ABA) animal model mimics core features of the mental disorder, including severe food restriction, weight loss, and hyperactivity. Previous results obtained in our lab showed that maternal separation (MS) induces behavioral changes in anorexic-like ABA rats in a sexually dimorphic way: in females, the MS promoted hyperactivity and a less anxious-like phenotype in ABA animals; in males, instead, the MS attenuated the anxiolytic effect of the ABA protocol. These results led us to investigate the effect of the MS on brain areas involved in the control of the anxiety-like behavior. We focused our attention on the adult hippocampal neurogenesis, a process involved in the response to environmental stimuli and stressful condition. We analyzed the volume of the whole hippocampus and the proliferation rate in the dentate gyrus (DG) by quantifying Ki67-cells density and characterizing neuronal phenotype (DCX) and glial cells (GFAP) with double-fluorescence technique. The results obtained showed that only in maternally separated anorexic rats there is an increase of proliferation in DG, underlying the presence of a synergic effect of MS and ABA that boost the proliferation of new neurons and glia progenitors in a more evident way in females in comparison to males.

Anorexia nervosa in adolescents

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder with peak onset in adolescence, which carries the highest mortality rate of all psychiatric illnesses. It is commonly comorbid with other physical and mental health problems, yet training on management of people with eating disorders and working knowledge of clinicians working with underweight adolescents is inconsistent. This review of anorexia nervosa in adolescents provides an overview of the presentation, aetiology and treatment of this disorder, with a particular focus on the assessment and management of physical health risks, including refeeding syndrome.

Contraception in adolescents with anorexia nervosa. Is there evidence for a negative impact of combined hormonal contraceptives on bone mineral density and the course of the disease?

Objective: Adolescents with anorexia nervosa (AN) are at increased risk of unplanned pregnancies and bone loss, due to low oestrogen levels and low use of efficient contraception. The negative impact of combined hormonal contraceptives (CHC) on peak bone mass during adolescence might limit wider use in anorexic women. Another issue limiting CHC use is the concern, that CHC-induced cyclic bleeding reduces the motivation for further weight gain and thus exerts a negative impact on recovery. We wanted to find evidence based answers about the impact of CHC use on bone health and course of the disease in adolescents with AN.Methods: We performed a narrative review of the current literature investigating the effect of CHC or progestin-only contraceptives on bone density, body shape and course of disease in young women with anorexia.Results: There is no evidence that CHC use aggravates the bone loss associated with AN. In long-term users CHC exert a protective effect. Anorexic women using CHC showed at least the same or a greater weight gain in comparison with controls. Eating disorder attitudes did not worsen.Conclusion: We conclude, that at present there is no evidence, that use of CHC by AN patients has a negative impact on bone density or the course of disease.

Relationships between eating disorder psychopathology, sexual hormones and sexual behaviours

A growing body of evidences demonstrated that sexuality is an important topic in the clinical research of eating disorders (EDs), due to its association with specific psychopathological features, and etiological factors. The present review took into consideration the complex relationship between sexual behaviours, hormonal alterations and EDs psychopathology. Studies pertaining sexual behaviours in EDs were divided into those focusing on sexual dysfunctions, and those related to risky sexual behaviours. The limited number of studies on sexual dysfunctions, reported a controversial association with weight status and hormonal alterations, and a clear relationship with severity of specific psychopathology (e.g. body image disturbance). Risky sexual behaviours have been associated with impulsivity and dissociation, as well as with abnormal stress response. Finally, both restriction and uncontrolled eating have been found to be responsible for several complex metabolic alterations, determining varied sexual and gynecologic problems, such as amenorrhea, hypogonadism, genital vascular problems, infertility, and miscarriage, although it is also possible that alterations in feeding and stress hormones contribute to altered eating behaviour.

IS BODY FAT PERCENTAGE A GOOD PREDICTOR OF MENSTRUAL RECOVERY IN FEMALES WITH ANOREXIA NERVOSA AFTER WEIGHT RESTORATION? A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND EXPLORATORY AND SELECTIVE META-ANALYSIS

The resumption of menses (ROM) is an important outcome in anorexia nervosa treatment and is considered as a sign of recovery. Identification of relevant factors in its prediction is important in clinical practice. Therefore we aimed to conduct a systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis of the association between total body fat percentage (%BF) and ROM after weight restoration in adolescents and young adults with anorexia nervosa. The study was conducted by adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Data were collated using meta-analysis and a narrative approach. Of the 604 articles retrieved, only seven studies comprising a total of 366 adolescent and young adult females with anorexia nervosa met the inclusion criteria and were reviewed, and preliminary results revealed three main findings. Firstly, patients who resumed their menstrual cycle had a significantly higher mean %BF when compared to those who did not, an overall effect confirmed by the meta-analysis (SMD: 3.74, 95% CI: 2.26-5.22). Secondly, %BF was found to be an independent predictor of the ROM in this population and an increase of only one unit of %BF can increase the odds of menstruation by ≈15-20%. Thirdly, despite the paucity of data, a cut-off point of %BF≈21was suggested as the minimum needed for ROM. In conclusion, a higher %BF seems to be associated with the ROM in weight-restored adolescent and young adult females with anorexia nervosa. Its assessment is important in a clinical setting, especially after complete weight restoration. The PROSPERO Registry - A systematic review and meta-analysis of the factors associated with the resumption of the menstrual cycle in females with anorexia nervosa after weight restoration (CRD42019111841).

Treatment strategies for the female athlete triad in the adolescent athlete: current perspectives

Since the passage of Title IX in 1972, female sports participation has dramatically increased. The benefits of physical activity, including decreased risk for heart disease and diabetes as well as improved body image and self-esteem, far outweigh the risks. However, a select population of adolescent and young adult females may experience symptoms related to the female athlete triad (Triad), which refers to the interrelatedness of energy availability, menstrual function, and bone mineral density (BMD). These conditions often manifest clinically as disordered eating behaviors, menstrual irregularity, and stress fractures; an individual may suffer from 1 or all of the Triad components simultaneously. Because of the complex nature of the Triad, treatment is challenging and requires a multidisciplinary approach. Team members often include a physician, psychologist or psychiatrist, nutritionist or dietitian, physical therapist, athletic trainer, coach, family members, and most importantly, the patient. A thorough physical examination by a primary care physician is essential to identify all organs/systems that may be impacted by Triad-related conditions. Laboratory tests, assessment of bone density, nutritional assessment, and behavior health evaluation guide the management of the female athlete with Triad-related conditions. Treatment of the Triad includes adequate caloric consumption to restore a positive energy balance; this is often the first step in successful management of the Triad. In addition, determining the cause of menstrual dysfunction (MD) and resumption of menses is very important. Nonpharmacologic interventions are the first choice; pharmacologic treatment for MD is reserved only for those patients with symptoms of estrogen deficiency or infertility. Lastly, adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D is critical for lifelong bone health. For this review, a comprehensive search of relevant databases from the earliest dates to July 2016 was performed. Keywords, including female athlete triad, adolescent female athlete, disordered eating, eating disorder, low energy availability, relative energy deficit, anorexia, bulimia, menstrual dysfunction, amenorrhea, oligoamenorrhea, bone mineral density, osteopenia, osteoporosis, stress fracture, and stress reaction, were utilized to search for relevant articles. Articles that directly addressed assessment and management of any 1 or all of the Triad components were included in this comprehensive review. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide the reader with the latest terms used to define the components of the female athlete triad, to discuss examination and diagnosis of the Triad, and lastly, to provide the reader with the latest evidence to successfully implement a multidisciplinary treatment approach when providing care for the adolescent female athlete who may be suffering from Triad-related components.

Identification and management of eating disorders in gynecology: menstrual health as an underutilized screening tool

Eating disorders are life-threatening conditions that disproportionately affect females, often during child-bearing years. Although the endocrinological and reproductive sequelae of these conditions often fall within the treatment purview of obstetrician-gynecologists, the assessment of eating pathology is challenging and often not part of routine clinical care. This commentary focuses on one of the common presenting symptoms of eating disorders in women, menstrual dysfunction, and discusses considerations for its clinical management in gynecology. Assessment of menstrual status provides a natural starting point for provider-patient discussion of disordered eating and weight behavior. Routine screening for eating disorders is critical and must be universal given the serious long-term consequences of these disorders.

Obstetric and gynecologic problems associated with eating disorders

OBJECTIVE

This article summarizes the literature on obstetric and gynecologic complications associated with eating disorders.

METHOD

We performed a comprehensive search of the current literature on obstetric and gynecologic complications associated with eating disorders using PubMed. More recent randomized-controlled trials and larger data sets received priority. We also chose those that we felt would be the most relevant to providers.

RESULTS

Common obstetric and gynecologic complications for women with eating disorders include infertility, unplanned pregnancy, miscarriage, poor nutrition during pregnancy, having a baby with small head circumference, postpartum depression and anxiety, sexual dysfunction and complications in the treatment for gynecologic cancers. There are also unique associations by eating disorder diagnosis, such as earlier cessation of breastfeeding in anorexia nervosa; increased polycystic ovarian syndrome in bulimia nervosa; and complications of obesity as a result of binge eating disorder.

DISCUSSION

We focus on possible biological and psychosocial factors underpinning risk for poor obstetric and gynecological outcomes in eating disorders. Understanding these factors may improve both our understanding of the reproductive needs of women with eating disorders and their medical outcomes. We also highlight the importance of building multidisciplinary teams to provide comprehensive care to women with eating disorders during the reproductive years.

Treatments of medical complications of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa

Inherent to anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are a plethora of medical complications which correlate with the severity of weight loss or the frequency and mode of purging. Yet, the encouraging fact is that most of these medical complications are treatable and reversible with definitive care and cessation of the eating-disordered behaviours. Herein, these treatments are described for both the medical complications of anorexia nervosa and those which are a result of bulimia nervosa.

2014 Female Athlete Triad Coalition consensus statement on treatment and return to play of the female athlete triad: 1st International Conference held in San Francisco, CA, May 2012, and 2nd International Conference held in Indianapolis, IN, May 2013

The Female Athlete Triad is a medical condition often observed in physically active girls and women, and involves 3 components: (1) low energy availability with or without disordered eating, (2) menstrual dysfunction, and (3) low bone mineral density. Female athletes often present with 1 or more of the 3 Triad components, and an early intervention is essential to prevent its progression to serious endpoints that include clinical eating disorders, amenorrhea, and osteoporosis. This consensus statement represents a set of recommendations developed following the first (San Francisco, California) and second (Indianapolis, Indianna) International Symposia on the Female Athlete Triad. It is intended to provide clinical guidelines for physicians, athletic trainers, and other health care providers for the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of the Female Athlete Triad and to provide clear recommendations for return to play. The 2014 Female Athlete Triad Coalition Consensus Statement on Treatment and Return to Play of the Female Athlete Triad Expert Panel has proposed a risk stratification point system that takes into account magnitude of risk to assist the physician in decision-making regarding sport participation, clearance, and return to play. Guidelines are offered for clearance categories, management by a multidisciplinary team, and implementation of treatment contracts. This consensus paper has been endorsed by The Female Athlete Triad Coalition, an International Consortium of leading Triad researchers, physicians, and other health care professionals, the American College of Sports Medicine, and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine.