Refeeding Syndrome in Anorexia Nervosa: A Case Report 

Background: Refeeding syndrome (RS) could be a serious and deadly complication of anorexia nervosa (AN). This disease is associated with electrolyte abnormalities and organ damage, which occurs with a transition from a long-term catabolic to an anabolic state, especially with excessive nutrient intake. Case presentation This is a case report of a 21-year-old girl admitted to Beheshti hospital in Kashan, Iran, with general fatigue, secondary amenorrhea, aggression, and constipation. Based on clinical signs and DSM-5 criteria, the patient was diagnosed with serious anorexia nervosa (AN). She was carefully taken care of, and particular attention was paid to her food. Heart failure, hypophosphatemia, and hypokalemia occurred in spite of careful treatment. Laboratory examinations and clinical signs revealed refeeding syndrome. To treat refeeding syndrome, a 40 kcal/kg regimen was prescribed for the patient. She was carefully treated, and special attention was paid to prevent early dehydration syndrome, so that her body weight and electrolyte condition increased satisfactorily. Conclusions: Therefore, strict adherence to recommendations and careful monitoring of refeeding should always be taken into consideration when feeding patients with AN.