Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Review and Update

 

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Abstract

The understanding of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has undergone a rapid evolution with scientific advancement. IBS is a common functional bowel disorder that generates a significant health care burden and is the most commonly diagnosed gastrointestinal condition. There are well-established diagnostic criteria and algorithms for the initial evaluation of patients presenting with the symptoms of IBS. The symptoms can be targeted for therapy with a variety of pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical agents. Therapy should be individualized for the patient, and the cornerstone for any effective treatment strategy should be the solid patient–physician relationship.

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