Clinical, biochemical, and hematological characteristics of community‐dwelling adolescent and young adult males with anorexia nervosa

Objective

Data regarding clinical characteristics in males with AN are limited. We aimed to delineate clinical, biochemical, and hematological features in community-dwelling adolescent and young adult males with AN.

Method

A retrospective chart review of electronic medical records from 2000 to 2016 was conducted for 53 males aged 10–23 years old; AN (n = 36) and healthy controls (n = 17) were similar for Tanner stage.

Results

Adolescent and young adult males with AN were diagnosed at a mean age of 15.9 ± 3.0 years. The most prevalent strategy for weight loss (following calorie restriction) was over-exercising. Labs demonstrated polycythemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia, but no electrolyte abnormalities. Compared with healthy controls of similar Tanner stage, males with AN had lower total testosterone levels. A significant proportion of males with AN had traumatic bone fractures.

Discussion

Over-exercising is a common secondary weight loss strategy in males with AN. Testosterone levels are lower than in controls, but electrolyte abnormalities are rare. With enhanced provider awareness, diagnostic delays may be prevented.

Other Information

Published in: International Journal of Eating Disorders
License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
See article on publisher's website: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/eat.23622