What percentage below expected body weight is a key differentiating factor for anorexia nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is characterized by significant weight loss and an intense fear of gaining weight, often leading individuals to maintain a body weight that is significantly below what is considered normal for their age, gender, and height. The key differentiating factor for diagnosing anorexia nervosa is typically defined as being below 15% of the expected body weight. This threshold is used in clinical settings as a critical marker that helps healthcare professionals identify individuals who not only have low body weight but are also exhibiting the extreme behavior and preoccupation with weight that characterizes the disorder.

Maintaining body weight at 15% below the expected norm indicates a severe level of malnutrition and is associated with various health complications. Recognizing this specific percentage is vital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate interventions. Thus, the 15% criterion serves as a crucial guidepost in distinguishing anorexia nervosa from other eating disorders or conditions related to body weight.