Anorexia Nervosa C0003125
A serious eating disorder involving extreme food restriction and distorted body image. Treatment combines psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and sometimes medication.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- F99
- ICD-11
- 6A00.0
- Body system
- psychiatric
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Significant weight loss
Hypokalemia
Mood changes or anxiety
(psychiatric)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Common at all stages
Fear of gaining weight
(psychiatric)Amenorrhea
(psychiatric)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E)
Specialized eating disorder CBT focusing on restructuring thoughts about body image, food, and weight. Weekly sessions over 6-12 months help patients develop healthier coping mechanisms and maintain recovery gains.
Combination drug regimen with regular assessment
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Medical Nutrition Therapy
Registered dietitian-led meal planning with gradual caloric increase to achieve weight restoration. Regular food diaries and structured mealtimes help normalize eating patterns and reduce anxiety around food.
Additional treatment options
Structured Daily Routine
Establishing consistent sleep-wake cycles, meal times, and activity schedules provides stability and reduces opportunities for disordered behaviors. Includes supervised meals and activity monitoring.
lifestyleMedical Stabilization and Monitoring
Inpatient or residential medical supervision for severely underweight patients to stabilize vital signs, correct electrolyte imbalances, and provide continuous psychiatric support during initial refeeding.
monitoringFamily-Based Treatment (FBT)
Maudsley method empowering parents to support weight restoration in adolescents while gradually returning autonomy to the patient. Involves regular family sessions and meal support.
complementaryWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Anorexia Nervosa C0003125?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American Psychiatric Association. Treatment Guidelines for Anorexia Nervosa in Adults. J Clin Psychiatry. 2023.
Hay PJ, Claudino AM, Touyz S. Psychosocial interventions for anorexia nervosa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Eat Disord. 2022.
Watson HJ, Egan S, Limburg K. Family-based treatment versus enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy for adolescents with anorexia nervosa: A randomized controlled trial. Psychol Med. 2021.
Zipfel S, Giel KE, Bulik CM. Anorexia nervosa: Aetiology, assessment, and treatment. Lancet Psychiatry. 2020.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Anorexia Nervosa C0003125. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy