psychiatric disorders
Bulimia Nervosa
Introduction
Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by some form of inappropriate compensatory behavior such as purging (self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic abuse), fasting, or driven exercise; episodes occur, on average, at least once/week for 3 months. Diagnosis is based on history and examination. Treatment is with psychologic therapy and antidepressants. (See also Introduction to Eating Disorders .) The lifetime prevalence of bulimia nervosa is about 0.5% of women and 0.1% of men ( General reference ). Those affected are persistently and overly concerned about body shape and weight. Unlike patients with 