All the following are features of Anorexia Nervosa except –
**Question:** All the following are features of Anorexia Nervosa except -
A. Amenorrhea
B. Hypotension
C. Acromegaly
D. Hyperthyroidism
**Core Concept:** Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is a psychiatric disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to severe weight loss and disruption of normal menstrual cycles in females. It is often associated with hormonal imbalances and cardiovascular complications, but the condition does not typically involve features like acromegaly or hyperthyroidism.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** C. Acromegaly is a condition characterized by excessive growth hormone secretion, leading to enlargement of bones and soft tissues. It is not a feature of Anorexia Nervosa because AN primarily involves fear of weight gain, not excessive growth hormone secretion.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Amenorrhea: This refers to the absence of menstrual periods in females. In AN, amenorrhea is a common feature due to the disruption of normal menstrual cycles caused by hormonal imbalances and weight loss.
B. Hypotension: Low blood pressure is not a typical feature of AN. Instead, hypotension is more commonly associated with other conditions, such as shock or severe dehydration.
D. Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism refers to an overactive thyroid gland, leading to increased thyroid hormone production. AN is characterized by a fear of weight gain, not an overactive thyroid gland. While some individuals with AN may present with signs of hypothyroidism due to malnutrition, hyperthyroidism is not a typical feature of the condition.
**Clinical Pearl:** Understanding the distinguishing features of AN is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. While AN is often associated with hormonal imbalances and cardiovascular complications, some of these features might be misinterpreted due to similar presentations in other conditions. Early recognition and intervention are essential to improve the prognosis and overall health of patients with AN.