Adoption of inpatient family-based treatment for anorexia nervosa: A case report

Abstract

Background: Family-based treatment (FBT) is effective for the treatment of anorexia nervosa (AN) in children and adolescents. However, its availability in Japan is limited because it requires adherence to specific guidelines, commitment of sufficient time for frequent outpatient treatment, as well as the entire family's participation. We present a case of a patient with AN who was treated with modified FBT during hospitalization. Case Presentation: Our patient was a 14-year-old girl with AN. She was hospitalized for malnutrition and dehydration, and was introduced to FBT during this period. After discharge, she continued FBT on an outpatient basis and was in remission 1 year later. Conclusion: This case shows that initiation of FBT during hospitalization may be useful in patients with physically severe AN. Flexible adaptation to each of the diverse healthcare systems and cultural differences may be necessary for the widespread use of FBT.