Eating disorders in children and young adolescents: etiology, classification, clinical features, and treatment

Eating disorders in children and young adolescents are increasing in prevalence and occurring at ever-earlier ages. Eating disorders in this age group differ from the traditional eating disorders seen in older adolescents and young adults in that they frequently present atypically, they are suspected less often, they are more difficult to diagnose definitively, and there is less evidence to guide informed treatment decisions. Classification of eating disorders in this population also presents unique challenges. A high index of suspicion and aggressive screening will help to prevent delays in diagnosis. Treatment should include attention to nutritional, medical, and psychological issues. Family therapy has emerged as the treatment modality with the greatest evidence for its efficacy. Prognosis has been poorly studied, but good outcomes are common, particularly with early intervention.