A 22-year-old woman presents with episodes of eating an amount of food that is definitely larger than what most people would eat in a similar period, occurring 3 times per week for 4 months. She reports a sense of lack of control during these episodes. She does not engage in any compensatory behaviors. Her BMI is 31 kg/m². What is the most appropriate DSM-5 diagnosis?
- A Bulimia Nervosa
- B Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder
- C Binge Eating Disorder ✓
- D Anorexia Nervosa, binge-eating/purging type
Correct answer: C. Binge Eating Disorder
Explanation
Binge Eating Disorder is characterized by recurrent binge episodes (eating an unusually large amount with loss of control) occurring at least once per week for 3 months, without regular compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. Associated features include rapid eating, eating until uncomfortably full, and marked distress. Unlike bulimia nervosa, no inappropriate compensatory behaviors are present. The diagnosis requires clinically significant distress and at least three associated features.
Reference: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.