Perceptions of health professionals in providing care for people with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa: a systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative studies.

This study sought to synthesize and reinterpret findings from primary qualitative studies on the experience of health professionals in caring for people with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. We conducted a systematic review of the literature with the SPIDER search strategy assessing six databases. A meta-synthesis was performed with data from qualitative studies. Two independent reviewers screened and assessed the articles, extracted data from the articles and elaborated thematic synthesis. Nineteen articles met the inclusion/exclusion criteria. The meta-synthesis revealed three descriptive themes: Going outside the comfort zone: hard relational experiences of health professionals in providing care for people with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa; Reflecting on treatment: relevance of discussion, communication, and flexibility in health professionals' work with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa; and Dealing with ambivalences: experiences of health professionals with family members of people with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. We elaborated two analytical themes: Making work with eating disorders palatable: malleability necessary for health professionals in bonding with people with anorexia and bulimia nervosa and their families; and Leaving the professional comfort zone: transition from multi to interdisciplinary. Thus, mental health professionals who work with people diagnosed with anorexia and bulimia nervosa cope with hard emotional experiences that makes them feel out of their comfort zone, requiring flexibility to benefit a good therapeutic alliance, but there are still difficulties in promoting interdisciplinarity.

Perder o apetite. A recusa do outro como busca de si mesmo. Exemplos saharianos, japoneses e franceses / La pérdida del apetito y el rechazo del otro como búsqueda de si mismo. Ejemplos saharianos, japoneses y franceses / Losing one's appetite. Rejection of the other as a quest for oneself. Examples from the Sahara, Japan and France / Perdre l'appétit. Le refus de l'autre comme quête de soi. Exemples sahariens, japonais et français

Esta reflexão antropológica baseia-se em pesquisas realizadas com jovens de 13 a 25 anos de idade, que permanecem isolados no seu quarto. Sua imobilidade, que não se justifica por nenhuma deficiência física ou psicológica, questiona o lugar do corpo no momento da passagem para a vida adulta. Estes jovens expressam uma ausência de apetite do outro, que vai de mãos dadas com a abstinência sexual forçada pelo seu isolamento. A hipótese é que eles experimentam uma relação com seu corpo, sua identidade sexual -e sua sexualidade -assim como com a alimentação, comparável às adolescentes que sofrem de anorexia nervosa, mas ao contrário. Estes comportamentos questionam as relações de gênero e a distribuição de papéis dentro da família. Com base em entrevistas e observações, tanto em casa como nos centros de cuidados, este artigo mostra que estes corpos adolescentes, tornados invisíveis por confinamento ou magreza extrema, são paradoxalmente uma expressão ostensiva de despossessão de si. Um novo apetite é possível quando surge o desejo de diferenciação e permite-se novos encontros

Esta reflexión antropológica se basa en una investigación realizada con jóvenes, de 13 a 25 añosde edad, que están enclaustrados en su habitación. Su inmovilidad, que no se justifica por ningúna discapacidad física o psicológica, cuestiona el lugar del cuerpo en el momento del paso a la edad adulta. Estos jóvenes manifiestan una ausencia de apetito por los demás que va unida a la abstinencia sexual a la que les obliga su aislamiento. La hipótesis es que experimentan una relación con su cuerpo, su identidad sexual -y su sexualidad-así como con la comida, comparable a la de las adolescentes que sufren anorexia nerviosa, pero a la inversa. Estos comportamientos cuestionan las relaciones de género y el reparto de roles en la familia. Basándose en entrevistas y observaciones, tanto en el hogar como en los centros de atención, este artículo muestra que estos cuerpos adolescentes, invisibilizados por el confinamiento o la extrema delgadez, son paradójicamente una ostentosa expresión del desposeimieto de si. Un nuevo apetito es posible cuando surge el deseo de diferenciación y se permite nuevos encuentros

This anthropological reflection is based on research carried out with young boys, aged 13 to 25, who are cloistered in their room. Their immobility, which cannot be explained by any kind of physical or psychological disability, raises questions about the body's place at the time they are passing into adulthood. These young people express an absence of appetite for others that goes hand in hand with the sexual abstinence that their withdrawal forces them to have. The hypothesis is that they experience a relationship with their body, their sexual identity -and their sexuality -as well as with food, comparable to young girls suffering from anorexia nervosa but in reverse. These behaviours question gender relations and the distribution of roles within the family. Based on interviews and observations, both at home and in care facilities, this article shows that these adolescent bodies, made invisible by confinement or extreme thinness, are paradoxically an ostentatious expression of self-dispossession. A new appetite is possible when the desire for differentiation emerges and allows new encounters

Cette réflexion anthropologique s'appuie sur une recherche menée auprès de jeunes garçons, de 13 à 25 ans, cloîtrés dans leur chambre. Leur immobilité, que ne justifie aucun handicap physique ou psychique, interroge la place du corps au moment du passage à l'âge adulte. Ces jeunes expriment une absence d'appétit de l'autre qui va de pair avec l'abstinence sexuelle que leur retrait oblige. L'hypothèse émiseest qu'ils vivent un rapport au corps, à leur identité sexuelle -et à leur sexualité-ainsi qu'à l'alimentation, comparable aux jeunes filles souffrant d'anorexie mentale mais de manière inversée. Ces conduites interrogent les rapports de genre et la distribution des rôles au sein de la famille. À partir d'entretiens et d'observations, à domicile et dans des structures de soin, cet article montre que ces corps adolescents invisibilisés par l'enfermement ou l'extrême maigreur sont paradoxalement une expression ostentatoire d'une dépossession de soi. Un appétit nouveau est possible lorsque le désir de différenciation émerge et permet de nouvelles rencontres

Reflexiones sobre la alianza terapéutica en adolescentes con anorexia nerviosa y sus familias / Reflections on the therapeutic alliance in adolescents with anorexia nervosa and their families

La alianza terapéutica en pacientes con Anorexia Nerviosa constituye un desafío debido a la gravedad de muchos de estos pacientes, a la falta de conciencia de enfermedad que poseen y a la resistencia al cambio, tanto del paciente como de sus familias. Frecuentemente, existe un desconocimiento por parte de los equipos médicos, de dicha patología y de su manejo. Diversos autores han aportado elementos necesarios para una adecuada alianza terapéutica y proponen estrategias que faciliten la construcción de esta alianza. En este artículo se lleva a cabo una revisión de las observaciones ofrecidas por varios autores, desde donde se reflexiona acerca de la importancia de la alianza terapéutica en pacientes con Anorexia Nerviosa y sus familias.

The therapeutic alliance in patients with Anorexia Nervosa constitutes a challenge due to several factors such as the severity of the illness that most of these patients suffer, their lack of awareness of disease, and the resistance to change in the patient and their family. Medical teams are frequently ignorant of this pathology and its treatment. Various authors have contributed in terms of the necessary elements for an adequate therapeutic alliance and in terms of delivering strategies to facilitate this alliance. In this article we will review several authors and reflect on the importance of the therapeutic alliance in patients with Anorexia Nervosa and their families.

Ilusão simbiótica e construção da identidade feminina nos transtornos alimentares: perspectiva da psicossomática psicanalítica / Symbiotic illusion and female identity construction in eating disorders: a psychoanalytical psychosomatics' perspective

Abstract: This study aims primarily to reflect on the role of symbiotic illusion in the construction of female identity in women with eating disorders (ED), using premises from psychoanalytic psychosomatics. Considering ED as psychopathologies related to the affective economy, Oedipal relations play crucial role in the process of identity constitution. Mother-daughter relationships in ED are shaped in the molds of symbiotic illusion, with weak father figures. We presented a case study to briefly illustrate the theoretical framework. The omissive posture of a father to interdict the symbiotic relation leads daughters to find themselves unable to libidinally invest in other objects.

Resumo: Este estudo teve como objetivo refletir sobre o papel da ilusão simbiótica na construção da identidade feminina em mulheres com transtornos alimentares (TAs), utilizando as premissas da psicossomática psicanalítica. Considerando-se os TAs como psicopatologias relacionadas à economia afetiva, as relações edípicas desempenham papel crucial no processo de construção de identidade. As relações mãe-filha nos TAs são moldadas pela ilusão simbiótica, com figuras paternas enfraquecidas. Nós apresentamos brevemente um estudo de caso para ilustrar os conceitos do referencial teórico. A postura omissa do pai para interditar a relação simbiótica com a mãe leva a filha à impossibilidade de investir libidinalmente em outros objetos.

Prominent autistic traits and subthreshold bipolar/mixed features of depression in severe anorexia nervosa

Objective: Autistic traits are associated with a burdensome clinical presentation of anorexia nervosa (AN), as is AN with concurrent depression. The aim of the present study was to explore the intertwined association between complex psychopathology combining autistic traits, subthreshold bipolarity, and mixed depression among people with AN. Method: Sixty patients with AN and concurrent major depressive episode (mean age, 22.2±7 years) were cross-sectionally assessed using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient test (AQ-test), the Hamilton depression scales for depression and anxiety, the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), the Hypomania-Checklist-32 (HCL-32), second revision (for subthreshold bipolarity), the Brown Assessment and Beliefs Scale (BABS), the Yale-Brown-Cornell Eating Disorders Scale (YBC-EDS), and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Cases were split into two groups depending on body mass index (BMI): severe AN (AN+) if BMI < 16, not severe (AN-) if BMI ≥ 16. Results: The "subthreshold bipolarity with prominent autistic traits" pattern correctly classified 83.6% of AN patients (AN+ = 78.1%; AN- = 91.3%, Exp(B) = 1.391). AN+ cases showed higher rates of positive scores for YMRS items 2 (increased motor activity-energy) and 5 (irritability) compared to AN- cases. Conclusions: In our sample, depressed patients with severe AN had more pronounced autistic traits and subtly mixed bipolarity. Further studies with larger samples and prospective follow-up of treatment outcomes are warranted to replicate these findings.

Prominent autistic traits and subthreshold bipolar/mixed features of depression in severe anorexia nervosa.

OBJECTIVE: Autistic traits are associated with a burdensome clinical presentation of anorexia nervosa (AN), as is AN with concurrent depression. The aim of the present study was to explore the intertwined association between complex psychopathology combining autistic traits, subthreshold bipolarity, and mixed depression among people with AN. METHOD: Sixty patients with AN and concurrent major depressive episode (mean age, 22.2±7 years) were cross-sectionally assessed using the Autism-Spectrum Quotient test (AQ-test), the Hamilton depression scales for depression and anxiety, the Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), the Hypomania-Checklist-32 (HCL-32), second revision (for subthreshold bipolarity), the Brown Assessment and Beliefs Scale (BABS), the Yale-Brown-Cornell Eating Disorders Scale (YBC-EDS), and the Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). Cases were split into two groups depending on body mass index (BMI): severe AN (AN+) if BMI < 16, not severe (AN-) if BMI ≥ 16. RESULTS: The "subthreshold bipolarity with prominent autistic traits" pattern correctly classified 83.6% of AN patients (AN+ = 78.1%; AN- = 91.3%, Exp(B) = 1.391). AN+ cases showed higher rates of positive scores for YMRS items 2 (increased motor activity-energy) and 5 (irritability) compared to AN- cases. CONCLUSIONS: In our sample, depressed patients with severe AN had more pronounced autistic traits and subtly mixed bipolarity. Further studies with larger samples and prospective follow-up of treatment outcomes are warranted to replicate these findings.

Impaired theory of mind in unaffected first-degree relatives of patients with anorexia nervosa.

OBJECTIVE: Previous studies have shown theory of mind (ToM) is affected in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). There has also been growing interest in the study of endophenotypes in psychiatric disorders, since they allow better understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying different conditions, making them potential targets for future treatment. The goal of this study was to investigate whether ToM inefficiencies observed in patients with AN, are shared by unaffected first-degree relatives. METHOD: Performance on two ToM tasks (Reading the Mind in the Eyes and Faux Pas Test) were compared in 17 unaffected first-degree relatives of AN patients and in 17 healthy individuals matched for age and level of education. Depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive, and eating disorder symptoms were also assessed and correlated with ToM and clinical/demographic variables. RESULTS: Significant differences between groups were observed in all ToM tasks, with relatives of AN patients showing poorer performance. ToM assessment did not correlate with any clinical or demographic variable. CONCLUSIONS: The preliminary results of this study suggest unaffected first-degree relatives of AN patients display similar patterns of difficulty in ToM as reported previously for AN patients, supporting the hypothesis that ToM inefficiencies are a familial trait in this condition.

Experiencia emocional de mujeres diagnosticadas con Anorexia Nerviosa (AN) respecto al si mismo, el otro y su tratamiento / Emotional experience of women diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) with respect to her treatment, the self and the other

El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo poder conocer la experiencia emocional de mujeres diagnosticadas con anorexia nerviosa respecto de su tratamiento, el sí mismo y el otro. Era interesante conocer cómo estas se describen e identifican y además cómo se desenvuelven con la alteridad, pudiendo rescatar de ello las influencias en sus vidas y en el proceso de la misma anorexia y tratamiento, por ende, en la expresión de sus emociones y el surgimiento de éstas. Se utilizó un enfoque cualitativo, de alcance descriptivo-exploratorio y realizado mediante una metodología basada en la Fenomenología hermenéutica. En cuanto a la muestra, las participantes fueron seis mujeres entre 15 y 37 años, con una anorexia nerviosa diagnosticada y encontrándose en tratamiento a la hora de su participación. La técnica de recolección de datos fue la entrevista en profundidad semi-estructurada. Los resultados dan cuenta acerca de la experiencia emocional en torno al tratamiento. Al respecto surgen distintas maneras de expresión de sus emociones, por lo general negativas, como la rabia, inseguridad, invalidez, reactancia, etc. Sumado a lo anterior, el sí mismo y el otro se relacionan con la experiencia en tratamiento, ya que la manera de ser de estas mujeres influye tanto en el proceso de recuperación como en la manera en que se enfrentan a la alteridad, donde pueden mostrarse complacientes, como opositoras y en su totalidad culpables. Es aquí donde el cuerpo emerge como regulador de la relación con la alteridad y, por ende, surge el síntoma. Se concluye que el otro ya sea dentro del tratamiento como en la vida influye en que la sintomatología actualmente se encuentre latente.

The present study aimed to know the emotional experience of women diagnosed with anorexia nervosa regarding their treatment, the self and the other. It was interesting to know how these are described and identified and also how they develop with the otherness, and can rescue from it the influences in their lives and in the process of the same anorexia and treatment, therefore, In the expression of their emotions and the emergence of these. A qualitative approach was used, with a descriptive-exploratory scope and carried out using a methodology based on hermeneutic Phenomenology. As for the sample, the participants were six women between 15 and 37 years old, with anorexia nervosa diagnosed and being treated at the time of their participation. The technique of data collection was the semi-structured depth interview. The results tell about the emotional experience around treatment. Regarding this arise different ways of expressing their emotions, usually negative, such as anger, insecurity, disability, reactance, etc. In addition, the self and the other are related to the experience in treatment, since the way of being of these women influences both the recovery process and the way in which they face alterity, where they can be complacent or opposers, and in their totality guilty. It is here that the body emerges as regulator of the relationship with the otherness and, therefore, the symptom emerges. It is concluded that the other -either within the treatment as in life-, influences in that the symptomatology is currently dormant.

Feelings and perceptions of women recovering from anorexia nervosa regarding their eating behavior.

According to the phenomenological approach, observing a phenomenon through the perspective of those who lived it may be necessary to acquire fully comprehension of it. Therefore, to fully understand the eating behavior during anorexia nervosa and during its recovery, this study investigated individual perceptions and feelings of three women recovering from anorexia nervosa. This study is characterized as a qualitative research with phenomenological approach. The data were collected through interviews and analyzed following steps proposed by phenomenology researchers. During the anorexia nervosa experience, food restriction and irregular meal patterns were observed. Controlling food intake was associated with happiness. Guilt, anguish, sadness, fear and anger were associated with eating, and food was considered a villain. An obsessive thinking about food and a paradox between liking to eat and not wanting to eat were also observed. During recovery, it is important to have a more flexible eating behavior without negative feelings regarding food; however, feelings of guilty and fear were still detected. Perceptions about contact with nutritionists revealed the use of ineffective strategies. Although similarities were found in all reports, every woman had their own particular and singular experience. Rescuing their memories and experiences through their speech was important to fully understand and comprehend these personal experiences, and this complete understanding may enable health professionals to act more efficiently in the treatment of this complex phenomenon.

The Efficacy of Psychological Therapies in Reducing Weight and Binge Eating in People with Bulimia Nervosa and Binge Eating Disorder Who Are Overweight or Obese-A Critical Synthesis and Meta-Analyses.

Recurrent binge eating episodes, the core feature of Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED), are frequently comorbid with obesity. Psychological interventions, notably Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), are effective for binge eating reduction in BED or BN but less so for weight loss. Behavioural Weight Loss Therapy (BWLT) shows effectiveness for binge eating reduction and weight loss but the latter appears poorly sustained over time. Our aim was to review evidence for efficacy of psychological therapies for BN/BED associated with overweight or obesity in reducing binge frequency and weight. A systematic search for randomized controlled trials with adult samples who had BN or BED was conducted considering articles in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese with no restrictions for the timeline publication ending in March 2016. A quality appraisal of the trials and meta-analyses comparing BWLT to CBT were done. This review identified 2248 articles for screening and 19 published articles were selected. No trials of BN were identified. This review found CBT was favoured compared to BWLT with regard to short-term binge eating reduction. However, insufficient evidence was found for superiority for BWLT efficacy compared to CBT considering binge eating remission, reduction of binge eating frequency and weight loss. More research is needed to test the efficacy of psychological treatments for BED or BN with co-morbid overweight or obesity, including trials evaluating binge eating remission and weight loss in the long-term.

An Exploratory Evaluation of the Family Meal Intervention for Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa.

Although weight restoration is a crucial factor in the recovery of anorexia nervosa (AN), there is scarce evidence regarding which components of treatment promote it. In this paper, the author reports on an effort to utilize research methods in her own practice, with the goal of evaluating if the family meal intervention (FMI) had a positive effect on increasing weight gain or on improving other general outcome measures. Twenty-three AN adolescents aged 12-20 years were randomly assigned to two forms of outpatient family therapy (with [FTFM] and without [FT]) using the FMI, and treated for a 6-month duration. Their outcome was compared at the end of treatment (EOT) and at a 6-month posttreatment follow-up (FU). The main outcome measure was weight recovery; secondary outcome measures were the Morgan Russell Global Assessment Schedule (MRHAS), amenorrhea, general psychological symptoms, and eating disorder symptoms. The majority of the patients in both groups improved significantly at EOT, and these changes were sustained through FU. Given its primarily clinical nature, findings of this investigation project preclude any conclusion. Although the FMI did not appear to convey specific benefits in causing weight gain, clinical observation suggests the value of a flexible stance in implementation of the FMI for the severely undernourished patient with greater psychopathology.

Feelings and perceptions of women recovering from anorexia nervosa regarding their eating behavior / Sentimentos e percepções de mulheres sobre seu próprio comportamento alimentar durante a recuperação da anorexia nervosa / Sentimientos y percepciones de mujeres sobre su propio comportamiento alimentario durante la recuperación de la anorexia nerviosa

Abstract: According to the phenomenological approach, observing a phenomenon through the perspective of those who lived it may be necessary to acquire fully comprehension of it. Therefore, to fully understand the eating behavior during anorexia nervosa and during its recovery, this study investigated individual perceptions and feelings of three women recovering from anorexia nervosa. This study is characterized as a qualitative research with phenomenological approach. The data were collected through interviews and analyzed following steps proposed by phenomenology researchers. During the anorexia nervosa experience, food restriction and irregular meal patterns were observed. Controlling food intake was associated with happiness. Guilt, anguish, sadness, fear and anger were associated with eating, and food was considered a villain. An obsessive thinking about food and a paradox between liking to eat and not wanting to eat were also observed. During recovery, it is important to have a more flexible eating behavior without negative feelings regarding food; however, feelings of guilty and fear were still detected. Perceptions about contact with nutritionists revealed the use of ineffective strategies. Although similarities were found in all reports, every woman had their own particular and singular experience. Rescuing their memories and experiences through their speech was important to fully understand and comprehend these personal experiences, and this complete understanding may enable health professionals to act more efficiently in the treatment of this complex phenomenon.

Resumo: De acordo com a abordagem fenomenológica, a compreensão plena de um fenômeno pode exigir a observação do mesmo pela ótica daqueles que o vivenciaram. Portanto, para compreender plenamente o comportamento alimentar em relação à anorexia nervosa, o estudo investigou as percepções e sentimentos individuais de três mulheres durante a recuperação da anorexia nervosa. O estudo é caracterizado como uma pesquisa qualitativa com abordagem fenomenológica. Os dados foram coletados através de entrevistas, e analisados de acordo com os passos preconizados por pesquisadores fenomenológicos. Durante a experiência com a anorexia nervosa, foram observados a restrição alimentar e padrões de refeições irregulares. O controle da ingesta alimentar esteve associado à felicidade. Sentimentos de culpa, ansiedade, tristeza, medo e raiva estiveram associados à alimentação, onde o alimento era visto como vilão. Também foram observados pensamentos obsessivos em relação aos alimentos e um paradoxo entre gostar de comer e não querer comer. Durante a recuperação, é importante adotar um comportamento alimentar mais flexível, sem sentimentos negativos em relação ao alimento; entretanto, ainda eram detectados sentimentos de culpa e medo. As percepções sobre o contato com nutricionistas revelaram o uso de estratégias ineficazes. Embora os relatos tenham mostrado semelhanças entre si, cada mulher apresentava uma experiência única e particular. Resgatar as memórias e experiências através do discurso foi importante para compreender plenamente as experiências pessoais, e essa compreensão completa pode ajudar os profissionais de saúde a agirem de maneira mais eficiente no tratamento desse fenômeno complexo.

Resumen: De acuerdo con el enfoque fenomenológico, la plena comprensión de un fenómeno puede exigir la observación del mismo desde la óptica de aquellos que lo sufrieron. Por tanto, con el fin de comprender plenamente el comportamiento alimentario, en relación con la anorexia nerviosa, este estudio investigó las percepciones y sentimientos individuales de tres mujeres durante la recuperación de su anorexia nerviosa. El estudio está caracterizado como una investigación cualitativa con enfoque fenomenológico. Los datos fueron recogidos a través de entrevistas y analizados de acuerdo con los pasos preconizados por investigadores fenomenológicos. Durante el proceso de anorexia nerviosa, se observó la restricción alimentaria y los patrones de comidas irregulares. El control de la ingesta alimentaria estuvo asociado a la felicidad. Sentimientos de culpa, ansiedad, tristeza, miedo y rabia estuvieron asociados a la alimentación, donde el alimento era visto como un villano. También se observaron pensamientos obsesivos en relación con los alimentos y una paradoja entre el placer por la comida y no querer comer. Durante la recuperación es importante adoptar un comportamiento alimentario más flexible, sin sentimientos negativos relacionados con los alimentos; sin embargo, todavía se detectaban sentimientos de culpa y miedo. Las percepciones sobre el contacto con nutricionistas revelaron el uso de estrategias ineficaces. A pesar de que los relatos habían mostrado semejanzas entre sí, cada mujer presentaba una experiencia única y particular. Rescatar los recuerdos y experiencias a través del discurso fueron importantes para comprender plenamente las experiencias personales, y esa comprensión completa puede ayudar a los profesionales de salud a actuar de manera más eficiente en el tratamiento de este fenómeno complejo.

Family psychic transmission and anorexia nervosa / Transmissão psíquica familiar e anorexia nervosa / Transmisión psíquica familiar y la anorexia nervosa

Studies show that family relationships can act as mediating agents in triggering and maintaining the symptoms of anorexia nervosa (AN), especially the mother-daughter relationship configuration, which contains unconscious elements transmitted inter-generationally. This study aimed to understand the role of intergenerational psychic transmission in the articulation of anorexic symptoms in a young woman in treatment. Three generations of women of the same family were interviewed: maternal grandmother, mother and daughter, all diagnosed with AN. Some psychic contents that could not be elaborated were identified in the reports and these were, subsequently, converted into legacies transmitted to later generations. Feelings of inhibition and shame regarding sexuality and the female body, transmitted from grandmother to mother and from mother to granddaughter, seem to have blocked the emotional development in all generations. Incorporating these findings into treatment may facilitate the processing of the transmitted unconscious contents, contributing to the reorganization of the family's psychodynamic functioning.

Estudos evidenciam que as relações familiares podem atuar como agentes mediadores no desencadeamento e manutenção dos sintomas de anorexia nervosa (AN), especialmente a configuração vincular mãe-filha, que contém elementos inconscientes transmitidos transgeracionalmente. Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender a implicação da transmissão psíquica transgeracional na articulação do sintoma anoréxico em uma jovem em tratamento. Foram entrevistadas mulheres de três gerações de uma mesma família: avó materna, mãe e filha (com diagnóstico de AN). Foram identificados nos relatos conteúdos psíquicos que não puderam ser elaborados e que, posteriormente, converteram-se em legados transmitidos para as gerações posteriores. Sentimentos de inibição e vergonha em relação à sexualidade e ao corpo feminino, transmitidos da avó para a mãe e desta para a neta, parecem bloquear o desenvolvimento afetivo nas gerações posteriores. Incorporar esses achados ao tratamento da neta pode facilitar a elaboração dos conteúdos inconscientes transmitidos, contribuindo para reorganização do funcionamento psicodinâmico familiar.

Los estudios demuestran que las relaciones familiares pueden actuar como agentes mediadores en el desencadenamiento y mantenimiento de los síntomas de anorexia nerviosa (AN), especialmente en la configuración del vínculo entre madre e hija, que contiene elementos inconscientes transmitidos transgeneracionalmente. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo comprender la implicación de transmisión psíquica transgeneracional en la articulación de los síntomas de anorexia de una joven en tratamiento. Mujeres de tres generaciones de una misma familia fueron entrevistadas: abuela materna, madre e hija con diagnóstico de AN. Fueron identificados en los relatos, contenidos psíquicos que no pudieron ser elaborados y, posteriormente, se convirtieron en legados transmitidos para generaciones posteriores. Sentimientos de inhibición y vergüenza con relación a la sexualidad y al cuerpo femenino, transmitidos de abuela para madre y de madre para hija, parecen bloquear el desarrollo afectivo en las generaciones posteriores. Incorporar estos resultados en el tratamiento de la nieta puede facilitar la elaboración de los contenidos inconscientes transmitidos, contribuyendo para reorganizar el funcionamiento psicodinámico familiar.

Family Psychic Transmission and Anorexia Nervosa / Transmissão Psíquica Familiar e Anorexia Nervosa / Transmisión Psíquica Familiar y la Anorexia Nervosa

Studies show that family relationships can act as mediating agents in triggering and maintaining the symptoms of anorexia nervosa (AN), especially the mother-daughter relationship configuration, which contains unconscious elements transmitted inter-generationally. This study aimed to understand the role of intergenerational psychic transmission in the articulation of anorexic symptoms in a young woman in treatment. Three generations of women of the same family were interviewed: maternal grandmother, mother and daughter, all diagnosed with AN. Some psychic contents that could not be elaborated were identified in the reports and these were, subsequently, converted into legacies transmitted to later generations. Feelings of inhibition and shame regarding sexuality and the female body, transmitted from grandmother to mother and from mother to granddaughter, seem to have blocked the emotional development in all generations. Incorporating these findings into treatment may facilitate the processing of the transmitted unconscious contents, contributing to the reorganization of the family's psychodynamic functioning.

Estudos evidenciam que as relações familiares podem atuar como agentes mediadores no desencadeamento e manutenção dos sintomas de anorexia nervosa (AN), especialmente a configuração vincular mãe-filha, que contém elementos inconscientes transmitidos transgeracionalmente. Este estudo teve por objetivo compreender a implicação da transmissão psíquica transgeracional na articulação do sintoma anoréxico em uma jovem em tratamento. Foram entrevistadas mulheres de três gerações de uma mesma família: avó materna, mãe e filha (com diagnóstico de AN). Foram identificados nos relatos conteúdos psíquicos que não puderam ser elaborados e que, posteriormente, converteram-se em legados transmitidos para as gerações posteriores. Sentimentos de inibição e vergonha em relação à sexualidade e ao corpo feminino, transmitidos da avó para a mãe e desta para a neta, parecem bloquear o desenvolvimento afetivo nas gerações posteriores. Incorporar esses achados ao tratamento da neta pode facilitar a elaboração dos conteúdos inconscientes transmitidos, contribuindo para reorganização do funcionamento psicodinâmico familiar.

Los estudios demuestran que las relaciones familiares pueden actuar como agentes mediadores en el desencadenamiento y mantenimiento de los síntomas de anorexia nerviosa (AN), especialmente en la configuración del vínculo entre madre e hija, que contiene elementos inconscientes transmitidos transgeneracionalmente. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo comprender la implicación de transmisión psíquica transgeneracional en la articulación de los síntomas de anorexia de una joven en tratamiento. Mujeres de tres generaciones de una misma familia fueron entrevistadas: abuela materna, madre e hija con diagnóstico de AN. Fueron identificados en los relatos, contenidos psíquicos que no pudieron ser elaborados y, posteriormente, se convirtieron en legados transmitidos para generaciones posteriores. Sentimientos de inhibición y vergüenza con relación a la sexualidad y al cuerpo femenino, transmitidos de abuela para madre y de madre para hija, parecen bloquear el desarrollo afectivo en las generaciones posteriores. Incorporar estos resultados en el tratamiento de la nieta puede facilitar la elaboración de los contenidos inconscientes transmitidos, contribuyendo para reorganizar el funcionamiento psicodinámico familiar.

Trastorno del comportamiento alimentario de difícil tratamiento: Caso clínico / Eating behavior disorders difficult to treat: A clinical case

La incidencia de los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria (TCA), integrados por la bulimia nerviosa (BN) y la anorexia nerviosa (AN) ha aumentado en los últimos años. Su etiología es multifactorial. Las edades de presentación son cada vez más tempranas, afectando a individuos de ambos sexos. Son trastornos crónicos, que asocian importante morbi-mortalidad y que frecuentemente se presentan con múltiples recaídas. El tratamiento requiere la participación de un equipo multidisciplinario, sin claras evidencias que indiquen la efectividad de diversas estrategias terapéuticas. Se analiza el caso clínico de una adolescente portadora de TCA: AN con componente purgativo. Presentaba varios de los factores de riesgo descriptos para la enfermedad, la forma de presentación fue característica y presentó algunas de las complicaciones más frecuentes. El tratamiento se inició con la paciente hospitalizada, realizando un abordaje multidisciplinario. La respuesta inicial no fue buena, por lo que fue necesario cambiar la estrategia terapéutica. Como objetivo terapéutico principal se planteó el cuidado de la integridad física y mental. Se buscó recuperar el estado nutricional instaurando cambios en la conducta alimentaria.

The incidence of eating behaviour disorders (EBD), represented by bulimia nervosa (BN) and anorexia nervosa (AN) has increased in recent years. Its aetiology is multifactorial. Currently, the age at presentation is increasingly younger, affecting individuals of both sexes. EBDs are chronic disorders, associated with high morbidity and mortality and often present with multiple relapses. Treatment requires the involvement of a multidisciplinary team, although there is no evidence indicating the effectiveness of various treatment strategies. The study presents the case of a EBD carrier teen (AN with purgative component). This patient had several risk factors described for the disease, the presentation was characteristic and presented some of the most frequent complications. Treatment was initiated with hospitalization and a multidisciplinary approach. The initial response was not good, so it was necessary to change the therapeutic strategy. The major therapeutic target was the physical and mental integrity care. Recovery of nutritional status was initiated and sought to establish changes in eating behaviour.

[Body dysmorphic disorder: clinical aspects, nosological dimensions and controversies with anorexia nervosa]. / Trastorno dismórfico corporal: aspectos clínicos, dimensiones nosológicas y controversias con la anorexia nerviosa.

There is strong evidence about the co-existence of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and eating disorders (ED), particularly with anorexia nervosa (AN). An exhaustive review of the specialised literature regarding these disorders was carried out. The results show that their co-occurrence implies a more complex diagnosis and treatment, a more severe clinical symptomatology and a worse prognosis and outcome. Both disorders display common similarities, differences and comorbidities, which allow authors to classify them in different nosological spectra (somatomorphic, anxious, obsessive-compulsive, affective and psychotic). Their crossover involves higher levels of body dissatisfaction and body image distortion, depression, suicidal tendency, personality disorders, substance use/abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social phobia, alexithymia and childhood abuse or neglect background. Treatment including cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and selective reuptake serotonin inhibitors are effective for both, BDD and ED; nevertheless, plastic surgery could exacerbate BDD. Clinical traits of BDD must be systematically detected in patients suffering from ED and vice versa.

Análise da evolução dos critérios diagnósticos da anorexia nervosa / Analysis of the evolution of the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa / Análisis de la evolución de los criterios diagnósticos para la anorexia nerviosa

Desde a inclusão da anorexia nervosa (AN) na terceira edição do Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico de Transtornos Mentais (DSM), os critérios diagnósticos do transtorno têm sido atualizados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar a evolução destes critérios e discutir sobre suas principais alterações. Trata-se de um estudo teórico. Foram consultadas as versões III, IV, IV-TR e V do DSM e realizada pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed, Scielo e Scopus, com as seguintes palavras-chave em combinação: “anorexia”, “DSM” e “diagnostic criteria”. Verificaram-se alterações nos critérios relacionados à necessidade de amenorreia, de índice de massa corporal mínimo e foram acrescentadas informações sobre o nível de gravidade e de remissão do transtorno, além de mais detalhes sobre subtipos de AN. Revisões periódicas do DSM, a partir de contribuições de clínicos e de pesquisadores garantem avaliações mais precisas e o delineamento de intervenções mais efetivas no tratamento e na prevenção de transtornos alimentares.

Since the inclusion of anorexia nervosa (AN) in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the diagnostic criteria of the disorder have been updated. The aim of this study was to present the evolution of these criteria and discuss the major changes. This is a theoretical study. The III, IV, IV-TR and V versions of DSM were consulted. The authors also consulted PubMed, SciELO and Scopus databases, using the following keywords in combination: anorexia, DSM, and diagnostic criteria. There have been changes in the criteria related to the need for amenorrea and minimum body mass index, and information was added on the level of severity and remission of the disorder, as well as subtype details. Periodic reviews of the DSM, based on clinical researcher’s contributions, provide more accurate assessments and the design of more effective interventions in the treatment and prevention of eating disorders.

Desde la inclusión de la anorexia nerviosa (AN) en la tercera edición del Manual Diagnóstico y Estadístico de los Trastornos Mentales (DSM), sus criterios diagnósticos se han actualizado. El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar la evolución de estos criterios y discutir sus principales cambios. Este es un estudio teórico. Las Versiones III, IV, IV-TR y V del DSM fueron consultados y se buscó en la bases de datos PubMed, SciELO y Scopus, con las palabras clave en combinación: “anorexia”, “DSM” y “criterios diagnósticos”. Se han producido cambios en los criterios de necesidad de amenorrea, índice mínimo de masa corporal y se añade información sobre el nivel de severidad y remisión de la enfermedad, así como más detalles acerca de sus subtipos. Revisiones periódicas del DSM, a partir de contribuciones de clínicos y pesquisadores proporcionan mejor evaluación y intervenciones más eficaces en el tratamiento y prevención de los trastornos alimentarios.

Análise da evolução dos critérios diagnósticos da anorexia nervosa / Analysis of the evolution of the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa / Análisis de la evolución de los criterios diagnósticos para la anorexia nerviosa

Desde a inclusão da anorexia nervosa (AN) na terceira edição do Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico de Transtornos Mentais (DSM), os critérios diagnósticos do transtorno têm sido atualizados. O objetivo deste trabalho foi apresentar a evolução destes critérios e discutir sobre suas principais alterações. Trata-se de um estudo teórico. Foram consultadas as versões III, IV, IV-TR e V do DSM e realizada pesquisa nas bases de dados PubMed, Scielo e Scopus, com as seguintes palavras-chave em combinação: "anorexia", "DSM" e "diagnostic criteria". Verificaram-se alterações nos critérios relacionados à necessidade de amenorreia, de índice de massa corporal mínimo e foram acrescentadas informações sobre o nível de gravidade e de remissão do transtorno, além de mais detalhes sobre subtipos de AN. Revisões periódicas do DSM, a partir de contribuições de clínicos e de pesquisadores garantem avaliações mais precisas e o delineamento de intervenções mais efetivas no tratamento e na prevenção de transtornos alimentares.

Since the inclusion of anorexia nervosa (AN) in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the diagnostic criteria of the disorder have been updated. The aim of this study was to present the evolution of these criteria and discuss the major changes. This is a theoretical study. The III, IV, IV-TR and V versions of DSM were consulted. The authors also consulted PubMed, SciELO and Scopus databases, using the following keywords in combination: anorexia, DSM, and diagnostic criteria. There have been changes in the criteria related to the need for amenorrea and minimum body mass index, and information was added on the level of severity and remission of the disorder, as well as subtype details. Periodic reviews of the DSM, based on clinical researcher's contributions, provide more accurate assessments and the design of more effective interventions in the treatment and prevention of eating disorders.

Desde la inclusión de la anorexia nerviosa (AN) en la tercera edición del Manual Diagnóstico y Estadístico de los Trastornos Mentales (DSM), sus criterios diagnósticos se han actualizado. El objetivo de este estudio fue presentar la evolución de estos criterios y discutir sus principales cambios. Este es un estudio teórico. Las Versiones III, IV, IV-TR y V del DSM fueron consultados y se buscó en la bases de datos PubMed, SciELO y Scopus, con las palabras clave en combinación: "anorexia", "DSM" y "criterios diagnósticos". Se han producido cambios en los criterios de necesidad de amenorrea, índice mínimo de masa corporal y se añade información sobre el nivel de severidad y remisión de la enfermedad, así como más detalles acerca de sus subtipos. Revisiones periódicas del DSM, a partir de contribuciones de clínicos y pesquisadores proporcionan mejor evaluación y intervenciones más eficaces en el tratamiento y prevención de los trastornos alimentarios.

Trastorno dismórfico corporal: aspectos clínicos, dimensiones nosológicas y controversias con la anorexia nerviosa / Body dysmorphic disorder: clinical aspects, nosological dimensions and controversies with anorexia nervosa

There is strong evidence about the co-existence of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and eating disorders (ED), particularly with anorexia nervosa (AN). An exhaustive review of the specialised literature regarding these disorders was carried out. The results show that their co-occurrence implies a more complex diagnosis and treatment, a more severe clinical symptomatology and a worse prognosis and outcome. Both disorders display common similarities, differences and comorbidities, which allow authors to classify them in different nosological spectra (somatomorphic, anxious, obsessive-compulsive, affective and psychotic). Their crossover involves higher levels of body dissatisfaction and body image distortion, depression, suicidal tendency, personality disorders, substance use/abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social phobia, alexithymia and childhood abuse or neglect background. Treatment including cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and selective reuptake serotonin inhibitors are effective for both, BDD and ED; nevertheless, plastic surgery could exacerbate BDD. Clinical traits of BDD must be systematically detected in patients suffering from ED and vice versa.