Anorexia Nervosa and Kidney Damage: A Case Report
Author Information
Author(s): Emilia Manzato, Maria Mazzullo, Malvina Gualandi, Tatiana Zanetti, Giovanni Scanelli
Primary Institution: Centre for Eating Disorders, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Ferrara 'Arcispedale Sant'Anna'
Hypothesis
Can chronic purging behavior in anorexia nervosa lead to nephropathy?
Conclusion
Hypokalaemia can lead to serious cardiovascular and renal complications in patients with long-term purgative anorexia.
Supporting Evidence
- The patient had a severe untreated form of anorexia nervosa with a 19-year duration.
- Laboratory findings revealed significant hypokalaemia and secondary hyperaldosteronism.
- Prolonged hypokalaemia can lead to chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis.
Takeaway
A woman with anorexia nervosa had kidney problems because she was not getting enough potassium due to her eating habits.
Methodology
Case report detailing the medical history, symptoms, and laboratory findings of a patient with anorexia nervosa and hypokalaemic nephropathy.
Limitations
The patient left the hospital against medical advice, limiting further evaluation and treatment.
Participant Demographics
33-year-old female Caucasian nurse with a 19-year history of anorexia nervosa.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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