Parenteral Nutrition in Eating Disorders: A Systematic Scoping Review
Abstract
Background: Eating disorders (EDs), particularly anorexia nervosa, are often associated with malnutrition that requires adequate nutritional support, including parenteral nutrition (PN) in selected cases. This scoping review summarises the existing evidence on the indications, outcomes, and complications of PN in patients with EDs.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in four databases (Embase, MEDLINE, Global Health, and APA PsycINFO) from inception to 30 March 2026. This review was reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines and registered on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/gqhzj).
Results: We included 29 relevant studies. Most studies were conducted more than 10 years before this review. PN was primarily used in patients with severe EDs when oral or enteral nutrition was refused or poorly tolerated. PN was associated with weight gain and improvements in electrolyte and micronutrient status. The effects on serum proteins and haematological indices were inconsistent. Psychological outcomes were infrequently reported. The reported complications include elevated transaminases and catheter-related infections. Acceptability data were sparse, with clinicians rarely using PN routinely.
Conclusion: PN has a limited but potentially helpful role in selected patients with EDs. However, this should be interpreted with caution, as recent evidence on PN is limited. Further high-quality studies are needed to provide clearer guidance to inform safe, ethical, and…
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