Physiological effects of bulimia nervosa on the gastrointestinal tract

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by frequent bouts of binge eating accompanied by compensatory behaviour for preventing weight gain (purging). It is estimated that 3% to 5% of young women are affected by bulimia nervosa, and its prevalence is increasing. Bulimia nervosa afflicts both sexes and all races. It can lead to serious medical complications. The expression of the disease in the gastrointestinal tract may have a critical role in the diagnosis of bulimia nervosa. Physiological effects of bulimia nervosa on the gastrointestinal tract include dental caries and enamel erosion; enlargement of the parotid gland; esophagitis; changes in gastric capacity and gastric emptying; gastric necrosis; and alterations of the intestinal mucosa. Identification of any of these factors may aid in establishing an early diagnosis, which has been shown to increase the likelihood of recovery.