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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
Perturbations of Circulating miRNAs in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Detected Using a Multiplexed High-throughput Gene Expression Platform
Published on: November 30, 2016
Association between myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome and irritable bowel syndrome: a systematic
Natalie Rajabi1, Prakash V A K Ramdass1
1Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, St. George's University School of Medicine, St. George, Grenada.
Background:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) are chronic, debilitating disorders characterized by substantial symptom burden, impaired quality of life, and high healthcare utilization. IBS is a disorder of gut-brain interaction with a global prevalence ranging from 3.8% to 9.2%, while ME/CFS is defined by persistent, exertion-intolerant fatigue and multisystem dysfunction. Growing evidence suggests frequent co-occurrence of these conditions, implicating shared mechanisms such as immune dysregulation, autonomic imbalance, and altered gut-brain signaling. However, the magnitude of their association has not been comprehensively quantified.
Methods:
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases from inception through February 2026. Eligible observational studies reporting associations or prevalence between IBS and ME/CFS were included. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to pool odds ratios (ORs) and prevalence estimates. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistics. We evaluated for publication bias and assessed for risk of bias.
Results:
Twenty-two studies were included in the systematic review and 18 in the meta-analysis. Individuals with ME/CFS had significantly higher odds of IBS compared with controls (OR = 7.20; 95% CI: 2.77-18.76; I2 = 72.1%). The pooled prevalence of IBS among individuals with ME/CFS was 37% (95% CI: 23-54%), with substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 99.5%). Subgroup analysis revealed that diagnostic criteria significantly influenced prevalence (p < 0.0001), while meta-regression identified ME/CFS diagnostic criteria as a significant moderator.
Conclusion:
IBS and ME/CFS are strongly associated, suggesting shared underlying mechanisms. These findings support integrated screening approaches and coordinated, multidisciplinary management to improve outcomes in affected patients.
Systematic Review Registration:
https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251006255.
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