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Selected Publication:
Gores, G.
Physical Activity and Leptin Levels in Patients with Anorexia Nervosa, Obesity, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Normal Controls
[ Diplomarbeit/Master Thesis ] Graz Medical University; 2008. pp.94.
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- Authors Med Uni Graz:
- Gores Gunther
- Advisor:
- Holasek Sandra Johanna
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Background: Leptin, an adipocyte derived hormone has been identified as a major factor in energy homeostasis regulation. Serum leptin levels correlate significantly with body fat mass and the BMI, suggesting low leptin levels in anorectic patients and excessive leptin values in obese patients. This observation has been made frequently. Hypoleptinemia found in anorexia nervosa may switch to hyperleptinemia if weight gain is reached too quickly and result in appetite suppression, thus leading to the exact opposite reaction than needed in the therapy of anorexia nervosa. Leptin also plays a major role in the regulation of physical activity another factor in regards to energy homeostasis. Therefore, the question arises, if leptin supplementation may possibly be a therapy-option for eating disorders in the fight against hyperactivity in this patient group. On the other hand, leptin might also be useful in the therapy of obesity, due to its known function as an appetite suppressant. And finally, does leptin offer a new therapy option to us for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affected children? Methods: Accelerometers (ActiGraphGT1M, Pensacola, USA) were used to measure physical activity over a period of 72 hours. Furthermore a questionnaire was developed to evaluate the daily physical activity. The body fat mass was determined using a LIPOMETER. Serum Leptin values were determined within the general anamnesis. Results: The body fat percentage lay between 7.3% and 23.4%. The ascertained number of steps lay between 71 and 824 per hour. The activity was highest for the AN-patients. Serum Leptin values ranged from 0.1 ng/mL to 11 ng/mL. Discussion: The presented thesis provides a comprehensive scientific presentation of the connection between BMI, body fat, serum leptin levels and the level of physical activity in AN, adipositas and ADHD. The clinical experience report gives an insight into the compliance and the therapeutic brief for the respective patient groups.