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Skin signs in anorexia nervosa.
R Strumìa1, E Varotti, E Manzato
1Department of Dermatology, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy. restrumi@tin.it
Dermatology (Basel, Switzerland)
|December 26, 2001
Summary
Skin changes are common in anorexia nervosa (AN), with xerosis and hair loss being most frequent. Specific dermatological signs differ between restrictive and bulimic AN types, some improving with BMI increase.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa (AN), are a growing concern in Europe, particularly among young women.
- AN is associated with significant medical complications affecting multiple organ systems, notably the skin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance understanding of the cutaneous manifestations in anorexia nervosa (AN).
- To investigate potential differences in skin signs between the restrictive and bulimic subtypes of AN.
Main Methods:
- A noncontrolled clinical study involving 24 consecutive patients diagnosed with either restrictive or bulimic AN.
- Comprehensive dermatological examinations assessing skin, oral cavity, hair, and nails, including pre-existing conditions.
Main Results:
- The most common skin findings included xerosis (58.3%), hair effluvium (50%), and nail changes (45.8%).
- Bulimic AN patients showed higher frequencies of hair effluvium, acne, gingivitis, nail changes, and pruritus compared to restrictive AN patients.
- Specific signs like Russell's sign were exclusive to bulimic AN, while hyperpigmentation and striae distensae were exclusive to restrictive AN. Some symptoms improved with increased BMI.
Conclusions:
- Cutaneous changes are highly prevalent in patients with anorexia nervosa.
- The type of AN (restrictive vs. bulimic) and body mass index (BMI) appear to influence the presence and severity of certain skin manifestations.
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