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Abstract
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Low bone mineral density is a significant complication of Anorexia Nervosa (AN). Adolescence is the time of peak bone mass accrual and a diagnosis of AN during this period can interrupt this process. This study retrospectively examined the records of all patients who attended a Child and Adolescent Community Eating Disorder Team in Ireland that were referred for a DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan over a two-year period. The test assesses bone mineral density. A total of 40 patients were referred for a DEXA scan during this time, ranging in age from 12-17. The majority (n=35) had a diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa while other diagnosis included Avoidant Restrictive Intake Disorder (ARFID) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED). Results reported the AP spine Z-score, with a score of -2 or lower defined as ‘below the expected range for age’. Of the 40 patients who were referred, 17.5% (n=7) had a result consistent with low mineral bone density. Results ranged from -2.1 to -3.2.
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