Atypical anorexia is a subtype of the anorexia nervosa eating disorder that presents with all the same psychological and behavioural features of anorexia nervosa, such as severe food restriction, intense fear of weight gain, body image distortion and obsessive thoughts around food, dieting and weight. However, the key difference is that individuals with atypical anorexia do not fall below a "clinically underweight" BMI, yet still experience the same serious medical and psychological complications.

This often leads to the condition being overlooked, despite the presence of significant anorexia nervosa signs and symptoms. Both anorexia nervosa and atypical anorexia are serious mental health conditions that require timely and appropriate anorexia treatment. 

Evidence-based anorexia nervosa therapies such as CBT-E, FBT, SSCM and AFT are considered essential parts of therapy for anorexia and can be effectively applied across both diagnoses. As a dietitian working in the field of anorexia nervosa treatments, my approach acknowledges the complexity and individual nature of recovery. 

Early detection of signs of anorexia nervosa and tailored intervention are crucial to prevent long-term complications associated with the anorexia nervosa disease. Regardless of weight status, the presence of anorexia symptoms signals the need for professional care and a compassionate, nonjudgmental treatment plan.