Irritable bowel syndrome: emerging paradigm in pathophysiology

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Background:

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder.
• Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, and altered bowel habits.
• Diagnosis relies on symptom presentation and physical examination due to lack of biomarkers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the complex and not fully understood pathophysiology of IBS.
• To review classical and emerging etiological factors contributing to IBS symptoms.
• To emphasize the need for a holistic approach in understanding and treating IBS.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing research on IBS pathophysiology.
• Identification of classical concepts (motility, hypersensitivity, brain-gut interaction).
• Exploration of emerging research areas (inflammation, genetics, microbiota, diet).

Main Results:

• IBS pathophysiology is multifactorial and complex.
• Classical concepts remain relevant, while emerging factors show potential but lack consistent results.
• Evidence suggests multiple mechanisms contribute to IBS in different patient subsets.

Conclusions:

• IBS cannot be attributed to a single etiological mechanism.
• A holistic approach is essential for effective IBS treatment and understanding.
• Further research is needed to reconcile emerging findings and refine understanding of IBS subtypes.