Anorexia nervosa and ophthalmic manifestation

Abstract:

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that results in a drastic reduction in body weight and a distorted image of one’s own body. It is most prevalent between 10 and 30 years of age. There are two basic types of anorexia: restrictive and irritating (purgative). Theories about the occurrence of anorexia are diverse, but the focus is primarily on psychological factors. People with anorexia lose their body weight by avoiding food, which is followed by amenorrhea, anemia, hormonal balance disorder and osteoporosis. Also, these patients have ophthalmological changes, primarily in terms of the retinal nerve layer thickness and choroidal thickness, with the reduction in the electrical activity of the macula. In addition, changes in the anterior segment of the eye appear primarily due to the reduction of tear secretion. To establish diagnosis of anorexia nervosa one must adhere to accepted criteria, and that would in consequence lead to adequate treatment. Aim of tretament must always be to avoid undesirable effects of anorexia nervosa.

Key words:
anorexia nervosa; dry eye; eating disorder; ophthalmic effects and anorexia