Recent studies have demonstrated a direct relationship between leptin and the regulation of energy balance, and as a factor involved in eating disorders. Acting on the central nervous system, leptin affects food intake, glucose metabolism, body weight, the production of sexual hormones, and physical activity. Studies with humans and animals indicate that low leptin levels are related to symptoms of anorexia nervosa: low food intake, excessive loss of body weight, amenorrhea and hyperactivity. Thus, the degree of hypoleptinemia is not only a strong indication of low reserves of adipose tissue, but also of a severe disorder, and leptin levels can be used to better evaluate the seriousness of the disease. Research has aimed to study the use of leptin in the treatment of patients with AN, and positive results have been obtained in the reduction of hyperactivity. It is possible that leptin treatment associated with medication and psychotherapy can be beneficial for extremely active anorexia nervosa patients, making them more susceptible to further treatment. Adequate food intake, medication, psychotherapy, and a comfortable environment during leptin treatment should be ensured. Thus, this article aims to describe leptin and aspects related to anorexia, and discuss how this information can be important in the clinical evaluation of patients with this eating disorder.
Anorexia nervosa; Hyperkinesis; Hormones; Leptin; Adipose tissue