Diagnostic dilemma of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder after bariatric surgery: A case report and review of literature.

Abstract

Background: Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for severe obesity but is associated with an increased risk for development of eating disorders. Indeed, numerous maladaptive eating behaviors and eating disorders have been described following bariatric surgery. However, the differentiation of pathologic eating patterns from expected dietary changes following bariatric surgery can sometimes be difficult to discern.

Case summary: A female in her early 40s presented for medical stabilization of severe protein calorie malnutrition after losing 52.3 kg over the last six months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, with subsequent development of cyclic nausea and vomiting. Fear of these aversive physical symptoms led to further restriction of nutritional intake and weight loss. The patient was diagnosed with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, which has not been previously reported after bariatric surgery.

Conclusion: Improvement in the diagnostic nomenclature for feeding and eating disorders is warranted for patients who have undergone bariatric surgery.