A Multidisciplinary Approach to Severe Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: Two Cases Report

Abstract

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder is an eating disturbance that causes many challenges for both parents and
clinicians. This study describes the cases of two children with early onset of severe feeding problems related to sensory
dysfunction and the need for enteral nutrition. A multimodal intervention was required with the involvement of pediatricians,
gastroenterologists, and child psychiatrists. Some interventions included sensory integration and speech therapies, and
individual and family-oriented psychotherapy. Moreover, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder can develop at a very early
age, with great severity, and may have a huge impact on children and their families. It requires a multidisciplinary, longstanding,
and individually tailored treatment approach.