Researchers from University Hospitals of Geneva in Switzerland evaluated the use of an online, guided, self-administered treatment program for bulimia nervosa (BN), and to determine predictors of outcome.

Data were collected in four European countries where the program was simultaneously used. One hundred and twenty-seven female patients with bulimia nervosa (mean age of 24.7 years) participated in a 4-month intervention, using a CBT based online-guided self-help program. Contact during the treatment period included weekly e-mails with a coach.

Measures included the Eating Disorders Inventory-2 (EDI-2) and the Symptom Check List-Revised (SCL-90R).

Findings showed that the severity of eating disorders symptoms and general psychopathology improved significantly. Twenty-three per cent of patients were symptom free at the end of treatment.

The dropout rate was 25.2%. A better score of general psychological health was a predictor of a better outcome.

The investigators conclude that further developments and research on innovative therapy approaches are indicated, particularly for those disorders such as BN, where traditional approaches have a challenging and unclear prognosis.

Citation:Carrard I1, Fernandez-Aranda F, Lam T, Nevonen L, Liwowsky I, Volkart AC, Rouget P, Golay A, Van der Linden M, Norring C. Evaluation of a guided internet self-treatment programme for bulimia nervosa in several European countries. European Eating Disorders Review. 2011 Mar-Apr;19 (2):138-49.) [email protected]