SUBTYPING EATING DISORDERS - IS IT JUSTIFIED

Objective: DSM-IV subtypes anorexia nervosa by the presence or absence of bulimic symptoms. Assessing whether bulimic symptoms are related t o the probability of recovery can provide justification for subtyping of anorexia. Method: Two hundred twenty-five treatment-seeking women w ith anorexia and/or bulimia nervosa were interviewed every 3 months fo r up to 4 years. Survival methods were used for analyses. Results: Les s than half of the entire cohort recovered; however, the great majorit y of the women became less symptomatic over time. Contrary to findings from previous studies, bulimic anorexics had a higher rate of recover y than restricting anorexics. Conclusion: Differences in course provid e some support for the subtyping of anorexia nervosa. Additional prosp ective studies are needed before subtyping can be warranted.