Assessment and management of cardiovascular complications in eating disorders

Conclusions were extracted and verified by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Adolescent Paediatrician, with suitable expertise in this clinical cohort.ConclusionsThe cardiovascular complications in EDs are primarily linked to malnutrition, and patients presenting with Anorexia Nervosa are most often at greatest risk of structural and functional cardiac abnormalities, including aberrations of heart rate and rhythm, haemodynamic changes and peripheral vascular abnormalities. Other cardiovascular abnormalities are secondary to electrolyte imbalances, as seen in patients with Bulimia Nervosa. More recently defined EDs including Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder and Binge Eating Disorder are also likely associated with distinct cardiovascular complications though further research is required to clarify their nature and severity. Most cardiovascular abnormalities are fully reversible with nutritional restoration, and normalisation of eating behaviours, including the cessation of purging, though rare cases are linked to cardiac deaths. A detailed clinical enquiry accompanied by a thorough physical examination is imperative to ensure the medical safety of AYAs with EDs, and should be supported by an electrocardiogram and laboratory investigations. Consideration of cardiovascular issues, along with effective collaboration with acute medical teams allows community clinicians identify those at highest risk and minimise adverse outcomes in this cohort.

Source: Journal of Eating Disorders - January 30, 2023 Category: Eating Disorders & Weight Management Source Type: research