Bulimia, also known as compulsive eating, has recently been recognized as a disease. Although bulimia is thought to be common, especially among young women, little is known about it. Theorized causes are primary neurologic dysfunction (epileptiform), disturbance in the appetite/satiety center of the hypothalamus, learned abnormal behavior or unsuppressed oral drive. Diagnosis rests primarily on the symptoms. Possible treatment measures include phenytoin, aversion therapy, psychotherapy and self-help groups.