[Early weight gain in anorexia nervosa is associated with a favourable prognosis]

In adolescent anorexia nervosa starvation with long-standing low weight worsens prognosis. Rapid weight gain at the start of treatment is associated with a favourable medical and psychological outcome. There is an increasing evidence base for family based treatment as the most efficacious treatment for adolescents with anorexia nervosa. It is essential for child and adolescent mental health services to promptly provide assessment to prevent further weight loss. Intensive family based treatment should be initiated without delay aiming rapid weight recovery. This is preferably managed at specialised eating disorders units.