Eating disorder signs
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Recognizing Eating Disorder Signs: Key Indicators and Diagnostic Challenges
Common Physical Signs of Eating Disorders
Lanugo Hair and Acrocyanosis
Lanugo hair, a fine, soft hair that grows on the body, is a common sign of severe anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). It is often a response to the body's attempt to insulate itself due to extreme weight loss and low body fat 12. Acrocyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the extremities, is another physical sign, though its interrater reliability is notably low, indicating it may not be consistently observed across different clinicians 1.
Parotid Hypertrophy and Russell's Sign
Parotid hypertrophy, the swelling of the parotid glands, is frequently seen in individuals with BN due to repeated vomiting. Russell's sign, characterized by calluses on the knuckles from inducing vomiting, is another hallmark of BN 125. These signs are critical for early diagnosis but can vary in visibility and may be underreported by patients.
Dermatologic Manifestations
Dermatologic symptoms are prevalent in eating disorder patients and can include xerosis (dry skin), telogen effluvium (hair loss), carotenoderma (yellowing of the skin), acne, and hyperpigmentation. These symptoms result from malnutrition, self-induced vomiting, and the abuse of laxatives and diuretics 257. Awareness of these skin signs can aid in the early detection of hidden eating disorders.
Psychological and Behavioral Signs
Body Image Disturbances
A significant psychological sign of eating disorders is a distorted body image, where individuals have an exaggerated perception of their body size and shape. This is often accompanied by an overwhelming desire to be thin, which drives behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, and purging 610.
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms, including denial, minimization, and intentional concealment of eating disorder behaviors, pose challenges for diagnosis. These symptoms can be subtle and require careful longitudinal evaluation and collateral data to ascertain 10.
Diagnostic Tools and Challenges
SEEDS Instrument
The Screen for Early Eating Disorder Signs (SEEDS) is a validated tool designed to identify individuals at risk of developing eating disorders, particularly in those with type 1 diabetes. It focuses on body image, feelings, and quality of life, and is a brief, self-administered questionnaire that can be used in clinical practice 3.
Importance of Multidisciplinary Approach
Given the complexity and multifaceted nature of eating disorders, a multidisciplinary approach involving pediatric diabetologists, skilled nurses, dieticians, and psychologists is essential for effective management and early diagnosis 8.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of eating disorders involves a combination of observing physical, dermatologic, psychological, and cognitive symptoms. Tools like the SEEDS instrument and a multidisciplinary approach can enhance early detection and treatment. Awareness and understanding of these signs are crucial for healthcare providers to diagnose and manage eating disorders effectively, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
The interrater reliability of physical signs in patients with eating disorders.
Marginal interrater reliability exists for five common physical signs of eating disorders, with individual item reliability ranging from poor to moderate.
Observational StudyDermatologic Signs in Patients with Eating Disorders
Dermatologists can help identify and treat dermatological conditions in patients with eating disorders, aiding in early diagnosis and management.
Highly CitedDevelopment and validation of the Screen for Early Eating Disorder Signs (SEEDS) in persons with type 1 diabetes
The SEEDS is a brief, self-administered screening tool for identifying individuals at risk of developing an eating disorder in individuals with type 1 diabetes.
Observational StudyIdentification of patients with eating disorders. The signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Eating disorders are diagnosed by recognizing specific signs and symptoms, which are often not seen in general medicine.
Systematic ReviewEating disorders and the skin.
Eating disorders can cause physical complications, such as skin issues, and dermatologists can help identify "hidden" signs in patients to help manage the disorder.
Review article: recognition and treatment of eating disorders in primary and secondary care
Eating disorders are serious illnesses affecting 1–2% of young women, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing physical and psychological complications.
The cutaneous signs of eating disorders.
Cutaneous signs, such as excoriations, scars, leg ulceration, and tooth loss, can help identify eating disorders and aid in early diagnosis, reducing morbidity and mortality.
Case ReportEating Disorders and Disordered Eating Symptoms in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes are at higher risk of eating disturbances, and multidisciplinary teams with nutrition and mental health experts are crucial for early referral and treatment.
Very Rigorous JournalHighly CitedClarifying criteria for cognitive signs and symptoms for eating disorders in DSM-V.
Clarifying cognitive criteria for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa in the DSM-V may improve clinical utility in assessing these symptoms without patient disclosure or endorsement.
Systematic ReviewHighly Cited