What DSM diagnosis is appropriate for an individual with restrictive eating and emotional binge eating, but without identified Binge Eating Disorder (BED)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: May 15, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis

The following differential diagnosis is based on the provided symptoms:

  • Single most likely diagnosis:
    • Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED): This diagnosis is likely because the individual restricts food intake during the day and has a tendency to binge eat when emotional, but does not meet the full criteria for binge eating disorder or other eating disorders.
  • Other Likely diagnoses:
    • Anorexia Nervosa (Restricting Type): Although the individual does not identify with having binge eating disorder, they may still meet the criteria for anorexia nervosa if their restrictive eating patterns and emotional binge eating are severe enough.
    • Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID): This diagnosis is possible if the individual's restrictive eating patterns are due to a lack of interest in food or avoidance of certain foods, rather than a fear of gaining weight or body image concerns.
    • Bulimia Nervosa: Although the individual does not identify with having binge eating disorder, they may still meet the criteria for bulimia nervosa if their binge eating episodes are followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise.
  • Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.):
    • Diabetes: Restrictive eating patterns and binge eating can lead to unstable blood sugar levels, which can be life-threatening if not properly managed.
    • Electrolyte Imbalance: Purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, can lead to electrolyte imbalances, which can be life-threatening if not properly treated.
    • Cardiac Complications: Severe restrictive eating and binge eating can lead to cardiac complications, such as bradycardia or cardiac arrhythmias, which can be life-threatening if not properly managed.
  • Rare diagnoses:
    • Pica: This diagnosis is possible if the individual's restrictive eating patterns are accompanied by cravings for non-food substances, such as dirt or chalk.
    • Rumination Disorder: This diagnosis is possible if the individual's binge eating episodes are accompanied by regurgitation and re-chewing of food, which can lead to digestive problems and other complications.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.