Abnormalities of dexamethasone suppression test and urinary MHPG in anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Patients (22) with primary anorexia nervosa were assessed on variables of weight, mood, dexamethasone suppression test and 24 h urinary MHPG (3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenyl glycol) levels. Patients at < 80% of their ideal weight had abnormally high cortisol levels after the test and low MHPG levels, regardless of their mood. These abnormalities apparently are not due to depression associated with anorexia nervosa and decreased norepinephrine metabolism may be related to this illness.