title: Anorexia nervosa and bulimia: diagnosis and comprehensive treatment.
abstract: The following principles are associated with successful treatment of anorexia nervosa and bulimia: (1) correct identification of these syndromes by history and mental examination, rather than by the elimination of all possible medical explanations; (2) a balanced approach between changing the abnormal weight or eating pattern and understanding and correcting the predisposing and underlying psychodynamics; (3) an empirical practical approach to treatment that avoids speculative concepts of origin; (4) an understanding of the natural history and underlying psychopathology of these disorders; (5) a non-blaming supportive approach, with variation in the specific kind of psychotherapy chosen according to the needs and abilities of the patient; (6) global treatment goals including psychologic, biologic, and social improvement; (7) avoidance of procedures with high morbidity such as tube feeding, hyperalimentation, and high-dose medication; and (8) an attitude of realistic optimism. Virtually all aspects of these disorders have the potential for complete improvement.
mesh_terms: D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D006963:Hyperphagia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D011613:Psychotherapy