What does the term "anorexia" refer to in a medical context?

The term "anorexia" in a medical context specifically refers to a lack of appetite or not eating. It is important to recognize that anorexia is often a symptom of an underlying health issue and can be associated with various medical conditions, including illness, psychological disorders, or side effects of medications.

The other terms provided refer to different eating behaviors: excessive eating describes conditions such as binge eating, while weight gain and increased appetite clearly indicate different states of feeding and nutrition. Understanding these distinctions helps in recognizing the significance of symptoms like anorexia in both clinical settings and animal care.