Brain treatment utilizing Deep Brain Stimulation may help Anorexia patients

By Irada Yunusova

Anorexia Nervosa is a very dangerous, chronic illness that usually affects teens between the ages of 15 and 19. Of all psychiatric disorders, Anorexia has one of the highest mortality rates at 6-11 percent. Specialists also agree that it is very difficult treat. However, a new study suggests that Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may be an effective treatment.

During DBS, electrodes are implanted into the portion of the brain that regulates emotion. The device is connected to a pulse generator located under the skin. DBS is typically only used to treat severe neurological disorders, but researchers conducted research to test its effectiveness in treating Anorexia.

Although the study was small, it does provide promise for future research. Three out of six of the patients had gained weight and appeared to be in a better state of mind after nine months. Also, for four patients, DBS was associated with improvements in mood, anxiety, and anorexia nervosa-related obsessions and compulsions. However, the three patients who did not experience weight gain experienced other adverse effects, including panic attacks, nausea, and pain. Continued research is necessary to draw more accurate conclusions about effective treatment methods for Anorexia Nervosa.

Reference: http://psychcentral.com/news/2013/06/16/a-new-hope-for-anorexia-patients-found-through-brain-treatment/56092.html