Medical comorbidity and medical complications associated with binge-eating disorder.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of possible medical complications of binge-eating disorder (BED).

METHOD

Literature on BED, both in obese and nonobese patients, was reviewed.

RESULTS

A growing literature suggests that BED independently may increase the likelihood of developing components of the metabolic syndrome, and that LOC eating in children may contribute to weight gain and metabolic disturbances. Limited evidence suggests that other organ systems may be affected by BED as well.

DISCUSSION

Additional prospective studies are needed. Although the results of the available studies are not definitive and provide somewhat mixed results, there does appear to be a clear suggestion of an increased risk for the development of components of the metabolic syndrome in adults and children.