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Psychiatry
Neurofibromatosis associated with anorexia nervosa and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
  1. Murray Glen Tucker1,2 and
  2. Peter M Haddad1,2
  1. 1MHDAS, Barwon Health, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
  2. 2School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
  1. Correspondence to Associate Professor Murray Glen Tucker; murray.tucker{at}barwonhealth.org.au

Abstract

We report a female patient with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) who developed anorexia nervosa (AN) in her early 30s. This required several admissions for weight restoration. The patient’s body image concerns and experience of stigma related to the dermatological manifestations of NF1 and her misconceptions regarding the relationship between weight and NF1 appeared to be aetiological factors for AN development. This view influenced the psychotherapeutic approach she received for AN, which was successful (current body mass index =20.5 kg/m2). After being diagnosed with AN, she was diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and successfully treated with stimulant medication (dexamphetamine) without compromising her body weight. In summary, the case illustrates that NF1 may be a risk factor for AN development and that recovery from AN is possible while treating comorbid ADHD with stimulant medications.

  • Psychiatry (drugs and medicines)
  • Neuro genetics
  • Nutritional support
  • Eating disorders
  • Psychotherapy

https://doi.org/10.1136/bcr-2024-264260

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    Footnotes

    • Contributors MGT assessed and managed the patient, reviewed patient records, contributed to the literature review and drafted and revised the manuscript. PMH conceptualised the case report, contributed to the literature review and interpretation of clinical findings and revised the manuscript. Both authors approved the final version of the manuscript. MGT was the guarantor.

    • Funding The authors have not declared a specific grant for this research from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors.

    • Case reports provide a valuable learning resource for the scientific community and can indicate areas of interest for future research. They should not be used in isolation to guide treatment choices or public health policy.

    • Competing interests None declared.

    • Provenance and peer review Not commissioned; externally peer reviewed.