Hormonal and biochemical abnormalities in women suffering from eating disorders

This study reports the results of a biochemical investigation of 80 eating disorder patients and results of an endocrinological investigation of 20 subjects. Of the 80 subjects studied, 22 suffered from anorexia nervosa and 51 were diagnosed as having bulimia. These patient's results were compared to those of 30 control subjects. The eating disorder patients had significantly higher levels of total CO2 calcium, alanine aminotransferase and cholesterol, and significantly lower levels of potassium, chloride and phosphate in the plasma. Hypokalaemia was strongly associated with self-induced vomiting and laxative abuse. Hypercholesterolaemia occurred most commonly in anorexia nervosa patients. Preliminary endocrinological results suggest decreased gonadotrophin levels are associated with binge eating and self-induced vomiting and laxative abuse, as well as with low weight. We feel eating disorder patients should be interviewed and examined by a physician with an interest in this area. Appropriate investigations should be ordered. The physician should also undertake counseling about the short- and long-term sequelae of disordered eating.