[Genetic markers and personality traits in eating disorders--preliminary results]

The multidimensional approach of the ethiopathogenesis of eating disorders include the genetic, biologic, psychosocial effects, and premorbid personality markers.

To determine the potential relation between genetic and personality trate and state factors, and also to investigate the connection of clinical symptoms and diagnostic subgroups. The serotonin transporter gene (VNTR) polymorphism was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, the personality factors were determined by the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) inventory.

Among patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) the short allele of serotonin transporter gene was more frequent than in anorexia nervosa (78% vs. 67%), and in both groups it was more common than in the general population (43%). Patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) have higher scores in the scale of harm avoidance (61,2 vs. 51.4), but in bulimia nervosa the novelty seeking (54.5 vs. 44.2) and the reward dependence factors (53.2 vs. 46.5) were more significant. In the self-directedness (BN: 42.7; AN: 44.3) and the cooperativeness scales (BN: 51.2; AN: 44.6) both groups show lower scores, which could implicate personality disorder in the background of the eating disorders. Anorexic patients with the 10 allele show similar personality factors like patients with bulimia nervosa, while with the 12 allele (homozygotes), their factors were more likely the factors of patients with classic anorexic symptoms.

Our data strength the role of specific personality factors in the background of the symptoms of eating disorders. Among patients with bulimia nervosa the 10 allele were more frequent, which could indicate the role of the serotonin system in developing eating disorders. Two subgroups were differentiated among patients with anorexia nervosa in relation with personality factors; the factors of patients with the 12 allele homozygotes were similar to the classical factors of anorexia nervosa, while patients with the 10 allele were like bulimic patients. Our results could improve our knowledge with newer aspects concerning the etiology of eating disorders, that might be used in broadening our preventive and therapeutic facilities in the future.