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Persistent osteopenia after recovery from anorexia nervosa
1Eating Disorders Unit, Institute of Psychiatry, DeCrespigny Park, London, U.K.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Osteopenia is common in women recovered from anorexia nervosa, with bone density loss linked to the duration of amenorrhea. Long-term recovery may not fully restore bone mass, highlighting the need for further research.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Eating Disorders
Background:
- Osteopenia is a frequent complication of anorexia nervosa.
- Previous recovery studies show conflicting results regarding bone mass restoration.
- This study investigates bone density in a long-term recovered group.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess bone mineral density in women with a history of anorexia nervosa who have achieved long-term recovery.
- To identify predictors of bone density outcomes in recovered individuals.
Main Methods:
- Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) was used to measure bone density.
- Bone density was assessed in the hip and lumbar spine.
- Eighteen women with a history of anorexia nervosa and long-term recovery were included.
Main Results:
- A high incidence of osteopenia was observed, affecting 14 out of 18 women.
- The duration of amenorrhea was the strongest predictor of reduced bone density.
- The ratio of recovery duration to illness duration correlated significantly with bone density outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Osteopenia persists in a significant proportion of women long after recovery from anorexia nervosa.
- Findings suggest that bone mass may not fully recover, impacting long-term health and societal economic burden.
- Further investigation into oral contraceptive use and longitudinal studies are recommended for managing bone health in this population.