[Anorexia nervosa, a serious disease of young women]

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a triad comprising anorexia, weight loss, and amenorrhoea. It is typically present in adolescent or young adult women and its prevalence appears to increase in our society. Eating disorders may lead to cachexia and various severe complications. This disease, which appears to be associated to a particular psychological background, is triggered by conflictual relationships, usually within the family. The anorectic patient should be carefully evaluated, as soon as possible, from a somatic, dietetic and psychological point of view. A specific therapeutic approach should be rapidly proposed in a specialized centre, if possible by a multidisciplinary team. The treatment is most often difficult and of long duration. Prognosis remains uncertain in most cases, especially when appropriate care is delayed.