Anorexia Nervosa: A disorder characterized by a prolonged
refusal to eat, resulting in emaciation, amenorrhea, emotional
disturbance concerning body image, and an abnormal fear of becoming
obese. The condition is seen primarily in adolescents,
predominantly in girls, and is usually associated with emotional
stress or conflict, such as anxiety, irritation, anger and fear,
which may accompany a major change in the person’s life.
Treatment consists of measures to improve nourishment, followed by
therapy to overcome the underlying emotional conflicts.