[Heterogeneity of eating disorders].

This paper revises the literature which has attempted to define subgroups within the umbrella category of eating disorders, taking into account the heterogeneity of the clinical picture regarding personality structure, its linkage to eating behavior disorders, and differences in emotional expression. Research conducted over the last few years, in light of the new definition of these disorders proposed by DSM IIR, reinforces the differences between patients following a restrictive pattern and patients with bulimic episodes.