The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in anorexia nervosa.
Studies examining the function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in anorexia nervosa are reviewed. A principal finding is that of hypercortisolism, associated with increased central corticotropin-releasing hormone levels and normal circulating levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone. Similarities between neuroendocrine findings in anorexia nervosa and in affective disorder are reviewed. The contribution of circadian rhythm disturbances and malnutrition to observed HPA axis abnormalities in anorexia nervosa is also considered. Directions for future research are discussed.
Licinio
J
J
Clinical Neuroendocrinology Branch, National Institute of Mental Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA. licinio@nih.gov
Wong
M L
ML
Gold
P W
PW
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000097:blood; D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000503:physiopathology*; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000502:physiology; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000097:blood; D007030:Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D010913:Pituitary-Adrenal System / Q000503:physiopathology*
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; D006854:Hydrocortisone