Invited Narrative Review of Purging Disorder: What We Know, Why It Matters, and Future Priorities

OBJECTIVE: This narrative review provides an accessible overview of purging disorder for clinicians, researchers, policymakers, and the public, emphasizing the importance of accurate communication and early detection for effective intervention. METHOD: Key findings are synthesized on diagnostic characteristics, prevalence, risk factors, cultural and gender considerations, comorbidity, functional impairment, and treatment needs. RESULTS: Although currently embedded in the DSM-5 "Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders" (OSFED) category, research demonstrates that purging disorder has distinct clinical features, medical risks, and developmental pathways. DISCUSSION: This narrative review highlights ongoing debates regarding classification and outlines public-health priorities for improving detection, research, and care.