Ascertainment of early onset eating disorders: a pilot for developing a national child psychiatric surveillance system.

Background: A Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Surveillance System was established as part of a British Paediatric Surveillance Unit study of early onset eating disorders (EOED). Method: A study of EOED presenting to paediatricians was undertaken through the BPSU over 15 months in 2005-06. Results: Monthly report cards compliance was 83%, identifying 208 EOED cases. On evaluation, 99% of psychiatrists responding supported the need for surveillance and 95% would continue to contribute. Conclusions: The findings of this pilot study suggest that a monthly surveillance of rare conditions in child and adolescent psychiatry is feasible and enhances ascertainment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]