The Puzzling Pathogenesis of the Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

In the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) the most frequently studied pathogenetic factors are dietary factors, gastrointestinal motility, intestinal pain perception, and psychologic factors. These factors have been studied separately by many investigators, but as yet no IBS-specific pattern of abnormalities has emerged from these investigations. The genesis of symptoms in the IBS has remained obscure. A more holistic approach in which these putative pathogenetic factors are studied in combination appears to be needed.

Key Words:

• Diet
• irritable bowel syndrome
• motility
• myoelectrical activity
• psychology