Persistent hyperphagia in acquired brain injury; an observational case study of patients receiving inpatient rehabilitation.
BACKGROUND
Morbid hunger or persistent hyperphagia is a relatively rare but potentially life threatening complication of acquired brain injury (ABI).


METHODS
This paper presents findings from an observational case study of patients with hyperphagia receiving inpatient neurobehavioural rehabilitation following their acquired brain injury. The case study has utilized dietetic and medical records of identified patients to confirm the persistent and serious nature of this presentation in order to extract important management principles.


RESULTS
The findings confirmed that hyperphagia or morbid hunger posed potentially life-threatening health risks to the patient, primarily around weight control and fluid balance, and risks of aggression towards professional and family carers. Pharmacological or behaviour modification interventions were only partially successful in management of this presentation. The study identified a high need for environmental and cue exposure control in management of this condition.
Rowell
Arleen M
AM
National Centre for Brain Injury Rehabilitation, St Andrew's Healthcare, Northampton, UK. arowell@standrew.co.uk
Faruqui
Rafey A
RA
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D006963:Hyperphagia / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged