[Feeding behavior disorders in man]

Diagnosis of anorexia nervosa is easily made using symptom lists. It is mandatory to check that the weight loss is due to no somatic cause. The prevalence of bulimia and syndromes associating bulimia and anorexia is increasing considerably. In these latter syndromes, while not in typical anorexia, major affective disorders are often found. Endocrinological abnormalities are numerous. However the part of denutrition itself in these abnormalities is not clear. Pathogenesis of these eating disorders remains mysterious. But most probably, the endogenous opioid system is involved, at least in their perpetuation.