We reviewed the clinical and biological studies which have suggested that eating disorders (ED) are phenotypical expressions of other psychiatric disorders and part of the spectra of other psychopathologies, specially the mood and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. The study of the relationship between ED and other psychiatric disorders using the spectrum model of psychopathology may allow a better understanding of the pathophysiology of such syndromes and tailoring more effective treatments. However, the recognition that ED display particular characteristics and the adoption of a critical view with regard to models that eliminate diagnostic limits may also be important for the advancement in the area of eating behaviors.
Eating disorders; Obsessive-compulsive disorder; Major depressive disorder; Bipolar disorder; Diagnosis; Comorbidity