Complete androgen insensitivity syndrome (CAIS) and eating disorders: a case report

Eat Weight Disord. 2021 Oct;26(7):2421-2426. doi: 10.1007/s40519-020-01069-1. Epub 2020 Nov 17.

Abstract

Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome represents a disorder due to partial (PAIS), mild (MAIS) or complete (CAIS) resistance to androgens caused by X-linked mutations of androgen receptor gene. CAIS is characterized by a female phenotype and XY karyotype. Cases of patients with CAIS and associated obesity have been reported, while to date, there are no reports about the onset of an Eating Disorder (ED) in the carriers of this condition. We describe the case of a patient affected by CAIS and Anorexia Nervosa (AN) restricting type later shifted to Bulimia Nervosa (BN). A previous overweight was present since childhood, contributing to severe Body Dissatisfaction (BD) and consequent restrictive behaviour in adolescence. Beyond its peculiarity, this case highlights also the importance of diagnosing and monitoring the overweight and BD in CAIS patients to avoid the onset of an ED.Level of Evidence: V, descriptive study.

Keywords: Body dissatisfaction; Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS); Eating disorders; Overweight.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Androgen-Insensitivity Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Child
  • Feeding and Eating Disorders*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mutation
  • Receptors, Androgen / genetics

Substances

  • Receptors, Androgen