The classification of eating disorders has been a matter of debate. Recent research indicates the clinical significance of eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS). However, EDNOS is defined by exclusion, i.e.that not to fulfil criteria for anorexia nervosa (AN) or bulimia nervosa (BN). The aim of the present study was to compare bulimic behavior and psychiatric diagnosis in women with BN and EDNOS.

All participants fulfilled the diagnosis according to DSM-IV. Women with BN (purging type, n=34) and age and body mass index matched women with EDNOS (n=31) were examined with respect to clinical condition, bulimic behaviour, purging methods and coexisting psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders.

Apart from expected differences in binge eating and compensatory behavior, there were no differences between the two groups. Women with BN had higher scores for weight fobia, previous attempt to commit suicide, impulsive behaviour other than theft, and disturbed impulse control than women with EDNOS, while there were no differences in ten other psychiatric items such as depression, anxiety.

Individuals with partial bulimia (EDNOS) seem to have the same spectrum of psychiatric diagnosis as women with BN even though they fail to meet diagnostic criteria for frequency of binge eating. There is a need to further specified the diagnostic criteria for BN.