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Anorexia nervosa in an adolescent — MCCQE Part 1 MCQ

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HardWeight LossAnorexia nervosa in an adolescentMCCQE Part 1

A 15-year-old girl presents with weight loss, secondary amenorrhoea and dizziness. BMI is below the 3rd percentile, heart rate is 42/min, and ECG shows QTc prolongation. She denies purging and wants to go home. What is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: A — Arrange urgent hospital assessment for medical stabilisation

Bradycardia, very low BMI, amenorrhoea and QTc prolongation indicate medical instability from an eating disorder, requiring urgent hospital assessment. Outpatient therapy is important but unsafe as the initial plan when unstable vital signs are present. Exercise can increase risk in malnutrition.

Reference: CPS eating disorders guidance