Anorexia Nervosa: As Devastadoras Consequências Médicas da Inanição

Anorexia nervosa carries the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric disorder. Starvation affects every organ system, and early, intensive intervention is lifesaving.

Systemic Impact of Malnutrition

• Cardiac: Arrhythmias (QT prolongation), hypotension, bradycardia, cardiomyopathy, and sudden cardiac death.
• Electrolyte: Hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypophosphatemia—with refeeding syndrome a critical risk during nutritional rehabilitation.
• Endocrine: Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (amenorrhea), bone loss, thyroid suppression.
• Gastrointestinal: Gastroparesis, constipation, hepatic steatosis.
• Neurologic: Brain volume loss, cognitive impairment, seizures.
• Hematologic: Anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia.

Mortality and Recovery

Mortality is estimated at 5–10% per decade, with suicide and cardiac arrest as leading causes. Early intensive treatment—medical stabilization, structured nutritional rehabilitation, and evidence-based psychotherapy (CBT-E, family-based treatment)—markedly improves recovery. "Watchful waiting" is never appropriate for severe anorexia nervosa.