An Evaluation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

Eating disorder (ED) is a serious global epidemic confronting adolescent females. If left untreated, they lead to many physical, psychiatric and social consequences. Their complications may lead to complaints such as insomnia, constipation, and fatigue. Dermatologic signs include alopecia, dermatitis, and lanugo. Postponement of treatment often leads to increased mortality in patients. Using DSM IV classification guidelines, Eating Disorders can be classified as Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN) or Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). AN is prevalent in single adolescent females since they are often preoccupied with their body shape and weight. This self-perception bias eventually has an effect on personal relationships. No pharmacological treatments have been approved in the US, and as a consequence, psychiatrists have to rely on psychotherapies for treating anorexia nervosa.

Modified versions of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) have become popular treatment modalities for inpatient and outpatient psychiatrists. However, there is not ample published clinical research to identify types of significant benefits of each treatment therapy to have a favorable effect on the outcome of the disease.

We collected and analyzed here several published randomized clinical studies to assess health gains that ensue from the treatment of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The intention here is not to compare CBT with other psychotherapies, but only to establish the proven short-term and long-term benefits of CBT. We are also interested in investigating whether patients of Anorexia Nervosa who are treated with CBT can retain the gains that result from the treatment.