Anorexia nervosa in the male: A review of clinical, epidemiological and biological findings

This paper collates previous reports of anorexia nervosa in males. Although as inclusive as possible, greater emphasis is given to certain papers in order to illustrate particular aspects of the male condition. Reasons are proposed as to why the diagnosis in males has been overlooked by many practitioners and theorists. The clinical picture and epidemiological features are described. The main endocrinological factors are presented and compared with those occurring in females. A sociocultural model is offered as one best integrating our knowledge of male anorexics. Running throughout is the general impression that anorexia nervosa within males is a counterpart to female anorexia. The applicability of the Feighner criteria to males is queried.