The Latest Data Concerning the Etiology and Pathogenesis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Abstract

Globally, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is present in approximately 10% of the population. While this condition does not pose a risk of complications, it has a substantial impact on the patient's quality of life. Moreover, this disease has a significant financial impact on healthcare systems. This includes the direct costs associated with the diagnosis and treatment of these patients, as well as the indirect costs that arise from work absenteeism and reduced productivity. In light of these data, recent research has focused on elucidating the pathophysiological basis of this condition in order to improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Despite extensive research to date, we still do not fully understand the precise mechanisms underlying IBS. Numerous studies have demonstrated the involvement of the gut-brain axis, visceral hypersensitivity, gastrointestinal dysmotility, gut microbiota dysbiosis, food allergies and intolerances, low-grade mucosal inflammation, genetic factors, and psychosocial factors. The acquisition of new data is crucial for the advancement of optimal therapeutic approaches aimed at enhancing the general health of these patients while simultaneously reducing the financial burden associated with this ailment.

Keywords: dysbiosis; gut–brain axis; irritable bowel syndrome; low-grade inflammation; pathophysiology.

Figure 1

Pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the occurrence of IBS (GI—gastrointestinal; SIBO—small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Figure 2

Psychological and social factors involved in the development of IBS [106,107,108,109].