The Early Canadian History of Anorexia Nervosa

Abstract

Objective:

To examine several early Canadian descriptions of anorexia nervosa (AN) in light of modern understanding of the disorder.

Method:

Two clinical reports of AN from the late 19th century and early 20th century in Canada are cited and summarized. These original case descriptions are then compared with late 20th century knowledge of the disorder.

Results:

Both of these early descriptions contain many astute and prescient observations on the etiology and sequelae of AN and reveal a compassionate approach to patient care.

Conclusions:

Canadian contributions to the medical literature on AN prior to 1970 merit both careful scrutiny and appreciation in the world literature on this disorder.