In a patient with bulimia nervosa, what physical examination finding is most likely to occur?

In a patient with bulimia nervosa, the most likely physical examination finding is dental caries. This is primarily because recurrent episodes of vomiting, which are characteristic of bulimia, expose the teeth to gastric acid. This acid can erode the enamel of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and leading to an increased incidence of dental caries. Additionally, patients may also experience other dental problems such as enamel erosion and sensitivity due to this repeated exposure.

Furthermore, the other options relate to different conditions or factors that may not be typically associated with bulimia nervosa. For instance, decreased body hair can be associated with malnutrition or hormonal imbalances, but it is not a hallmark of bulimia. Galactorrhea, or the inappropriate production of milk, is often related to hormonal issues, especially involving prolactin levels, rather than eating disorders like bulimia. Tachycardia, while it can occur due to many factors, is not as specifically linked to bulimia compared to the clear relationship between bulimia and dental caries stemming from vomiting. Thus, the connection between bulimia nervosa and dental health issues highlights the prevalence of dental caries in these patients.