What clinical sign is indicative of purging disorders in women?

The clinical sign indicative of purging disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, is enamel damage. This occurs because individuals with purging disorders often engage in behaviors such as self-induced vomiting to control weight. The stomach contents, which are highly acidic due to gastric juices, can erode dental enamel when they come into contact with the teeth. Over time, this leads to noticeable enamel damage, which can manifest as sensitivity, an increased risk of cavities, and changes in the appearance of the teeth.

Although dehydration can result from purging behaviors, it is not as specific to purging disorders as enamel damage. Loss of hair may occur in various conditions, including malnutrition or other eating disorders, but it is not uniquely associated with purging behavior. Weight gain is generally not a sign of purging disorders, as these disorders are typically characterized by attempts to lose weight or maintain a low weight.