Prevalence of bowel dysfunction in multiple sclerosis. A population survey

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gastroenterology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease.
• Bowel dysfunction is a frequently reported but often understudied complication in MS.
• Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of bowel dysfunction in MS is crucial for patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence of bowel dysfunction (constipation and fecal incontinence) in an unselected outpatient MS population.
• To characterize the relationship between bowel dysfunction and disease parameters (disability, duration) and other MS symptoms.
• To assess the impact of bowel dysfunction on patients' social functioning.

Main Methods:

• Survey of 280 outpatient individuals with multiple sclerosis.
• Detailed questionnaires assessing constipation and fecal incontinence.
• Correlation analysis with disability, disease duration, genitourinary symptoms, and medication use.

Main Results:

• Overall bowel dysfunction prevalence was 68% (43% constipation, 51% experienced fecal incontinence in the prior 3 months).
• Constipation and fecal incontinence were common even in mildly disabled patients.
• Bowel dysfunction correlated with disease duration and genitourinary symptoms, but not medication use in mildly disabled patients.

Conclusions:

• Bowel dysfunction is highly prevalent in multiple sclerosis patients, irrespective of disability level.
• This manifestation contributes significantly to social disability.
• Further research into the pathophysiology is needed to develop targeted therapeutic strategies.