Using virtual reality to help treat anorexia nervosa in children

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study aims to address the increasing prevalence of anorexia nervosa in children by utilizing virtual reality (VR) technology to modify attentional biases related to body image. The intervention includes VR-based body exposure and cognitive-behavioral therapy, targeting children under 14 years old with a primary diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. By focusing on the unique characteristics of childhood anorexia, the study seeks to develop tailored treatment strategies that can improve outcomes for young patients. The research is particularly timely given the rising incidence of eating disorders exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients with a primary diagnosis of anorexia nervosa (DSM-V)
* Patients below 14 years old
* Patients with BMI \<18.5
* Subsyndromal patients will also be included

Exclusion Criteria:

* Visual deficits
* Epilepsy or neuroleptic medication
* Psychotic disorder
* Bipolar disorder
* Medical complications
* Pregnancy
* Clinical cardiac arrhythmia

Where it's running

• Hospital Sant Joan de Déu
  Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: José Gutiérrez-Maldonado — University of Barcelona
• Study coordinator: José Gutiérrez-Maldonado
• Email: jgutierrezm@ub.edu
• Phone: 93 312 51 24

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Eating Disorder Dynamic Intervention

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• Hormone and metabolic patterns in hypothalamus-like brain cells from people with anorexia nervosa

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• Narrative medicine workshops to support teens and young adults with anorexia nervosa (virtual)

  This program tests whether a six-week series of narrative medicine workshops can help 16–25-year-olds with anorexia nervosa express themselves, reflect, and build resilience.

  Recruiting University of California, San Francisco · San Francisco, California · NCT07579442

How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.