A Comparison of Vital Sign Stability in Children and Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa: A Retrospective Chart Review

Purpose: Anorexia nervosa (AN) can occur in children under the age of 14 years old. However, there is limited data describing the physical impact of AN in this population. Vital sign instability including bradycardia, hypotension, and orthostatic pulse and blood pressure changes are commonly observed in patients with AN. Previous studies have suggested an association between the percent of ideal body weight (IBW) and vital sign instability. This study was undertaken to (i) compare vital sign instability in children and adolescents with AN and to (ii) independently determine the length of time and the percent IBW at which vital sign stabilization occurs.