Which term describes a prolonged disorder of eating due to loss of appetite?

The term that accurately describes a prolonged disorder of eating due to loss of appetite is anorexia. This term originates from Greek, where "an-" means without, and "orexis" means appetite. Anorexia signifies a significant reduction in the desire to eat, which can be the result of various psychological or medical conditions. It is important to note that anorexia can lead to severe malnutrition and health complications due to inadequate caloric intake.

The other terms differ in meaning and application. Apnea refers to a temporary cessation of breathing, typically associated with sleep disorders. Aphagia describes an inability to swallow, which can also affect the intake of food but is not directly linked to loss of appetite. Ascites pertains to the accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and is typically seen in conditions like liver disease, rather than an eating disorder. Understanding these distinctions aids in recognizing the specific nature of anorexia as a disorder related to appetite loss.