Anorexia nervosa and bulimia: problems of "the pleasing child".

Widespread media publicity has resulted in increased case findings of eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia. The etiology of these conditions is complex and multifactorial, and they may have devastating effects on physical and psychological health. Family physicians have an important role to play in recognizing, evaluating and managing eating disorders. Severe anorexics-those who have lost 25% or more of the average weight for their age and height-require specialist management, but milder forms respond to treatment which can be undertaken by an interested family physician. Most cases of uncomplicated bulimia can be treated successfully in a family practice setting.