Which bone density finding may be observed in anorexia nervosa?

Which bone density finding may be observed in anorexia nervosa?

• A. Osteopenia/osteoporosis on DEXA scan
• B. Hyperdensification on DEXA
• C. No bone density changes
• D. Increased bone density due to high estrogen

Answer: (A)

Bone density loss is a common finding in anorexia nervosa due to energy deficiency and low estrogen from hypothalamic suppression, which shifts the balance toward bone resorption and away from formation. On a DEXA scan, this typically presents as osteopenia or osteoporosis, reflecting reduced bone mineral density. This is especially important because it increases fracture risk and can impair peak bone mass during adolescence. Hyperdensification would not occur in this condition, no bone density changes would ignore a well-known complication, and elevated bone density from high estrogen is inconsistent with the hypoestrogenic state seen in anorexia.

Bone density loss is a common finding in anorexia nervosa due to energy deficiency and low estrogen from hypothalamic suppression, which shifts the balance toward bone resorption and away from formation. On a DEXA scan, this typically presents as osteopenia or osteoporosis, reflecting reduced bone mineral density. This is especially important because it increases fracture risk and can impair peak bone mass during adolescence. Hyperdensification would not occur in this condition, no bone density changes would ignore a well-known complication, and elevated bone density from high estrogen is inconsistent with the hypoestrogenic state seen in anorexia.