[Anorexia nervosa].
Anorexia nervosa is a very serious and potentially lethal eating disorder. It is characterized by distorted body picture, obsession with thinness, and loss of body weight exceeding 15% of expected ideal body weight. The incidence of this disorder is increased and the earlier the diagnosis and therapy start, the better is the prognosis. Etiology is unknown, but biological, social and psychological factors are assumed. The clinical picture is characterized by loss of body weight, amenorrhea, opstipation, sensitivity to cold, dry skin, exhaustion and obsession with the fear of becoming fat. Some laboratory findings are deranged, especially electrolyte balance. Hormonal derangement is also found. Diagnosis is made according to ICD 10, or DSM IV diagnostic criteria. In differential diagnosis, distinction has to be made from many somatic and some psychiatric disorders. Generally, somatic complications indicate the treatment, first in hospital and later on the outpatient basis. In the treatment, special attention should be paid to simultaneous application of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy in order to ensure better prognosis, which is usually poor.