The role of the generalist in the initial treatment of adolescent anorexia nervosa.

Anorexia nervosa is a potentially serious illness characterized by the sufferer having a malignant fear of gaining weight and being fat. It was believed to stem from psychosocial problems. Treatment of the adolescent with anorexia has typically involved an inpatient stay in a specialized center where he or she can receive therapy aimed at changing thinking and exploring family dynamics. A newer strategy, family-based treatment, focuses on the young person's physical state. It can be initiated by a primary care physician during an outpatient visit. This article introduces this new paradigm for treating anorexia nervosa in adolescents and outlines the role of the primary care physician in diagnosing, treating and supporting the patient.