Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review for General Pediatricians

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits. The bothersome and chronic nature of IBS symptoms negatively affects patients' activity level and quality of life, imparting an economic burden on the patient, the family, and the health care system. Research is still trying to elicit a clear pathophysiologic mechanism for IBS, and its clinical presentation and manifestations vary from patient to patient. The importance of a comprehensive history and physical examination cannot be emphasized enough in the diagnosis of IBS, as to date there are no specific laboratory studies that will confirm the diagnosis. There is currently no cure for IBS, and treatments range from a broad range of medications, to cognitive-behavioral therapy, to hyponotherapy. This review highlights recent advances in research on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, evaluation, and management of IBS.