Restrictive type and infectious complications might predict nadir hematological values among individuals with anorexia nervosa during the refeeding period: a retrospective study.

Deficiencies in components of the blood, such as a low red blood cell count, low white blood cell count, and low platelet numbers, are observed frequently in patients with anorexia nervosa, particularly those with severe malnutrition, and these deficiencies become manifest after hospitalization during the initial period when patients are reintroduced to food. Why this deterioration occurs even under medical care is not well understood. Here we analyzed the patient factors associated with these blood cell abnormalities. Patients with the restrictive type of anorexia nervosa, and infectious complications were more likely to have the lowest levels of hematological values during the refeeding period.