The purpose of this study was to investigate the presentation and outcome of anorexia nervosa (AN) within the pediatric population. A retrospective chart review of individuals who were admitted for the first time to hospital between 2000-2005 for treatment of AN was completed. Individuals were classified as Early Pediatric AN (admitted <14 years old) or Later Pediatric AN (≥14 years old). It was hypothesized that the Early Pediatric AN group would have a less severe presentation, as measured by percent ideal body weight (%IBW) and medical stability at admission, and better outcome as measured by rate of weight gain post-discharge, number of hospitalizations and the Morgan-Russell General Outcome Scale rating. The study contained a total of 207 cases, larger than many previous studies in pediatric AN. The study found that younger age at presentation was associated with admission at a higher %IBW but not medical stability. Age at presentation did not predict rate of weight gain or rehospitalization; however, the Early Pediatric AN group had a better outcome on the Morgan-Russell scale.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the presentation and outcome of anorexia nervosa (AN) within the pediatric population. A retrospective chart review of individuals who were admitted for the first time to hospital between 2000-2005 for treatment of AN was completed. Individuals were classified as Early Pediatric AN (admitted <14 years old) or Later Pediatric AN (≥14 years old). It was hypothesized that the Early Pediatric AN group would have a less severe presentation, as measured by percent ideal body weight (%IBW) and medical stability at admission, and better outcome as measured by rate of weight gain post-discharge, number of hospitalizations and the Morgan-Russell General Outcome Scale rating. The study contained a total of 207 cases, larger than many previous studies in pediatric AN. The study found that younger age at presentation was associated with admission at a higher %IBW but not medical stability. Age at presentation did not predict rate of weight gain or rehospitalization; however, the Early Pediatric AN group had a better outcome on the Morgan-Russell scale.