Severe Complication and Shoplifting Behavior in a Young Man with Atypical Anorexia Nervosa: A Case Report

Abstract

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterized by excessive restriction on food intake and irrational fear of gaining weight, often accompanied by a distorted body self-perception. It is rare among men. We report a case of a 20-year-old man who presented with gradual loss of weight and recurrent episodes of vomiting. Several biochemical and hormonal alterations, multiple medical complications, and cortical atrophy were ascertained. During hospitalization, he was at high risk due to those life-threatening severe refeeding syndrome. Furosemide and human serum albumin were used to control the refeeding syndrome, which achieved a rapid and significant curative effect. Body weight significantly gained, and the patient was discharged with various stable parameters. One year later, he was caught for shoplifting. There was no evidence suggesting any misdeeds to support that the stealing was intentional. The aim of this report was to remind us pay more attention to the male AN. A greater awareness of this condition in the male may lead to an early diagnosis and therapy for reducing morbidity and mortality.