[Treatment of bulimia nervosa--results from Modum Bads Nervesanatorium].

BACKGROUND

Hospital admission for bulimia nervosa is rather uncommon, but may be indicated in cases of psychiatric comorbidity, long duration of treatment and previous treatment failures. We describe a multicomponent inpatient treatment programme consisting of cognitive-behavioural group and individual therapy, physical training and steps to normalize eating patterns.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

All 47 patients treated between 1998 and 2000 were studied. Patients were interviewed and completed self-report instruments at admission and discharge.

RESULTS

At discharge, a significant improvement with respect to bulimic as well as general psychiatric symptoms had occurred.

INTERPRETATIONS: The results may indicate that improvement occurs even for severe bulimia with personality disorders, and that hospital treatment may be needed to accomplish this kind of change. Follow-up studies are necessary in order to corroborate these findings.