Schizotypy, Schizotypal Personality Disorder and Eating Disorders: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVES

This systematic review aims to explore the comorbidity of schizotypy and schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) with eating disorders (EDs).

METHODS

Four databases (Cochrane Library, PubMed, PsycINFO and Web of Science) were searched for empirical studies published through 2023. Eligible studies underwent data extraction, risk of bias assessment and subsequent analyses.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies with 2236 patients were included in the present review. The three main types of EDs-anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN) and binge eating disorder (BED)-along with their subtypes were involved. Patients with AN and both anorexia and bulimia nervosa exhibited more obvious schizotypal manifestations, whereas those with BN showed less severe schizotypal levels.

CONCLUSIONS

EDs are closely linked with schizotypy and SPD. Schizotypal manifestations vary across different types of EDs. The cognitive and social deficits highlighted by schizotypy and SPD and their associated neurobiological dysfunction may be related to abnormal and pathological eating behaviours. Future research should further investigate their comorbid relationships, especially potential transdiagnostic indicators.