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[Irritable bowel syndrome].
1Medizinische Klinik I, Klinikum Saarbrücken, Saarbrücken. w.haeuser@klinikum-saarbruecken.de
Schmerz (Berlin, Germany)
|April 7, 2004
Summary
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects 6-25% globally, with Germany at 15-22%. Effective treatments include antidepressants and psychotherapy, with combined therapy showing superior results for pain-dominant IBS.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) exhibits global prevalence rates from 6-25%, with Germany reporting 15-22%.
- Prevalence variations stem from differing diagnostic criteria in epidemiological studies.
- A significant portion of IBS patients in Germany (20-50%) seek medical attention, incurring substantial direct and indirect costs.
Purpose:
- To review the psychophysiological mechanisms underlying Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- To evaluate the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions for IBS, particularly pain-dominant forms.
- To compare the effectiveness of monotherapy versus combination therapy in IBS treatment.
Summary:
- Empirically validated psychophysiological mechanisms for IBS include visceral hypersensitivity, postinfectious effects, psychiatric comorbidities, and psychosocial stress.
- Pharmacological agents like tricyclic antidepressants and psychotherapies (hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy) are effective for pain management in IBS.
- A controlled study indicated that combining pharmacological therapy with cognitive behavioral therapy yields better outcomes than pharmacological therapy alone.
Impact:
- Understanding IBS pathophysiology can lead to more targeted treatment strategies.
- The findings support the integration of psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy for enhanced IBS symptom management.
- This review highlights the significant burden of IBS and the need for effective, evidence-based interventions.