An overview of the etiology, diagnosis, and management of anorexia nervosa.

The incidence of anorexia nervosa is increasing in adolescents. The pediatrician caring for teenagers is often the first professional confronted with the early signs and symptoms of this disorder. Clinical features and available literature on the psychological, nutritional, and family disorganization found in patients with anorexia nervosa are reviewed. Different therapeutic approaches are discussed, and current data on outcome are presented.