History of eating disorders in female patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder

The prevalence of eating disorders was assessed in a casenote study of 105 female patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). A previous history of anorexia nervosa was found in 12 (11%). Patients with a previous history of eating disorders (OCD-AN) had an earlier onset of OC symptoms than other patients. Among OCD-AN patients, the anorexia nervosa and obsessive-compulsive disorders had a similar age of onset. The comorbidity of the two syndromes among females may point to common vulnerability factors. Patients with early onset OCD may be at increased risk of developing eating disorders. The assessment of OCD in young female patients should include a careful check for evidence of eating disorders.