Feeding and eating disorders in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Psychology
• Child Psychiatry
• Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

• Growing body of literature on pediatric feeding and eating disorders.
• Recent revisions in diagnostic criteria (DSM-5) introduce new classifications like Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
• Increased research interest is anticipated due to updated diagnostic frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• Provide a timely overview of recent advancements in childhood feeding and eating disorders.
• Highlight the implications of revised diagnostic criteria, particularly ARFID.
• Synthesize current knowledge on presentation, diagnosis, epidemiology, risk factors, assessment, and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent journal articles on childhood feeding and eating disorders.
• Analysis of topics including classification, epidemiology, risk factors, assessment, and treatment.
• Synthesis of findings related to diagnosis, prognosis, and clinical implications.

Main Results:

• Recent literature covers diverse aspects: presentation, diagnosis, epidemiology, risk factors, assessment, treatment, and outcomes.
• The inclusion of ARFID in DSM-5 signifies a notable shift in classification.
• Despite progress, significant knowledge gaps persist in epidemiology, course, and prognosis.

Conclusions:

• Childhood feeding and eating disorders remain under-researched, with limited evidence for effective treatments.
• Promising research avenues are emerging, enhancing recognition of these disorders' complexity.
• Improved clinical awareness underscores the severity and long-term impact of these conditions if unmanaged.