Anorexia nervosa.

This paper, following a brief historical note, reviews the literature on anorexia nervosa. It begins by describing the characteristics of the syndrome and then considers incidence, aetiology and treatment. The results of treatment are described and the paper concludes by attempting a prognosis for those who are diagnosed anorexic. The authors are eclectic in their literature survey and also present some experience collected in a hospital school. The paper is intended as a teaching synthesis for clinicians new to this area or for those seeking a brief introduction to the present 'state of the art' in theory and practice.