Classification and Treatment of Long-standing (Severe and Enduring) Anorexia Nervosa.

Long-standing anorexia nervosa is presently conceptualized as a persistent symptomatic state associated with global functional and interpersonal impairments. Understanding of effective treatments is incomplete; psychological therapy is at the core, but also important are psychosocial and recovery support that includes significant others, tailored treatment targets such as improved quality of life, a collaborative and flexible approach to higher levels of care, and pharmacologic agents that augment therapy and address concurrent mental health problems. Research is needed to develop agreed-upon criteria (including specifiers for duration, severity, and treatment trajectory) and randomized controlled trials that can inform person-centered care.