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Anorectal dysfunction in constipated women with anorexia nervosa
G Chiarioni1, G Bassotti, A Monsignori
1Division of Gastroenterological Rehabilitation, Valeggio sul Mincio Hospital, University of Verona Medical School, Italy.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|October 21, 2000
Summary
Patients with anorexia nervosa experiencing constipation show anorectal motor abnormalities. Refeeding normalized colonic transit time but not pelvic floor dysfunction, suggesting eating behavior impacts gut motility.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Eating Disorders
- Physiology
Background:
- Chronic constipation is a common complaint among patients with anorexia nervosa.
- Anorectal and colonic dysfunction may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms in this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate anorectal and colonic motor function in patients with anorexia nervosa and chronic constipation.
- To assess the impact of refeeding on these functions.
Main Methods:
- Recruited 12 women with anorexia nervosa and chronic constipation, and 12 healthy controls.
- Utilized radiopaque marker technique for colonic transit time.
- Performed anorectal manometry and rectal sensation tests to evaluate pelvic floor dysfunction.
Main Results:
- Slow colonic transit time was observed in 66.7% of patients.
- Pelvic floor dysfunction was present in 41.7% of patients.
- Colonic transit time normalized after a 4-week refeeding program, but pelvic floor dysfunction persisted.
Conclusions:
- Anorexia nervosa patients with constipation exhibit anorectal motor abnormalities.
- Delayed colonic transit time is likely linked to abnormal eating behaviors.
- Refeeding improves colonic motility, but anorectal dysfunction may require further intervention.