Predictors of dropout from inpatient treatment for anorexia nervosa: data from a large French sample

Dropout from anorexia nervosa inpatient treatment programs is frequent and is linked to a poorer outcome. This study aimed to identify predictive factors for dropout among anorexia nervosa inpatients. Between 1988 and 2004, 601 consecutive female inpatients with anorexia, restrictive (AN-R) or binge/purging (AN-B/P) subtype (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, fourth edition (DSM-IV)), were assessed at admission (clinical, socio-demographic, and psychological data). A stepwise logistic model was developed. Dropout rates were respectively 50.0% and 56.2% for AN-R and AN-B/P. Seven predictive factors were identified in multivariate analysis: having one or more children, low desired body mass index (BMI), a low minimum BMI, high scores on the SCL-90 paranoid ideation and the Morgan and Russell eating behavior subscales, and low educational status. Early dropouts had a particular profile: lower desired BMI, higher score on SCL90 paranoid subscale, and more impulsive behaviors (alcohol use, suicide attempts). Dropout appeared as a multifactorial event. In clinical practice, certain factors could serve as warning messages reflecting the severity of the illness (high EDI score and low minimum BMI); while others could be targeted before hospitalization (having at least one child and low desired BMI).