G&H What underlying disease mechanisms play a role in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome?
GH Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is an example of disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs). These conditions are now defined by the Rome criteria and characterized by specific symptoms in the absence of structural abnormalities that can be identified utilizing routine clinical testing. The exact cause of IBS is unknown; however, it is likely that a variety of factors collectively or in isolation contribute to the manifestation of IBS. Although for many years there was a belief that motility abnormalities played a key role, it has been increasingly recognized that an increase in sensitivity of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract plays an important role and other factors include low-grade or minimal mucosal inflammation.