[Recent psychosomatic contributions to the pathogenesis and therapy of irritable colon (irritable bowel syndrome)]

Epidemiological studies indicate that irritable bowel syndrome represents the most frequent somatoforme disorder. Current pathogenetic concepts as well as newer results in pathophysiology, neurobiology and psychoendocrinology are described. As an example of the "brain-gut-link", the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) is discussed. The positive results of psychotherapeutic intervention studies are described in more detail. An intensified cooperation between the gastroenterologist and the psychotherapist is recommended.