FUNCTION AND DIMENSIONS OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM IN ANOREXIA NERVOSA

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The functional and dimensional components of the O2 transporting system were studied in 17 female and 11 male patients suffering from anorexia nervosa. Both groups were about 15 yr old, and lost about 25% of their weight. Measurements at rest included blood and heart volume, heart rate, blood pressure, O2 uptake (.ovrhdot.VO2), RQ [respiratory quotient], blood lactate (LA) and in 6 of the patients cardiac output [CO]. During bicycle ergometry the determinations of heart rate, blood pressure, LA, .ovrhdot.VO2 and CO were repeated and maximal aerobic power was determined. A low metabolic rate with bradycardia and hypotension was apparent at rest. Blood and heart volume was decreased proportionally to the weight loss. On a given work load .ovrhdot.VO2 was lowered to the same extent as the resting metabolic rate. At maximal effort .ovrhdot.VO2 was reduced out of proportion to the circulatory dimensions and maximal heart rate was low. During exercise CO was normally related to .ovrhdot.VO2 and stroke volume was maintained, indicating a normokinetic circulation and an unimpaired myocardial function. The main cause of the low maximal aerobic power may be the reduced muscle mass.