Cortisol, Depression, and Anxiety Levels Before and After Short-Term Intensive Nutritional Stabilization in Patients With Severe Anorexia Nervosa.

Introduction: Depression and anxiety are well-known comorbid conditions in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). Hypercortisolemia in patients with AN may be pathogenic and contribute to depression and anxiety symptomatology.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate short-term changes in cortisol levels and depression and anxiety symptomatology following intensive re-nutrition in patients with severe AN and hospitalized in a specialized unit.