Patients with irritable bowel syndrome are more burdened by co-morbidity and worry about serious diseases than healthy controls--eight years follow-up of IBS patients in primary care

Unplanned 30-Day Readmissions After Hospitalization for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Background Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) continues to pose significant healthcare challenges due to its broad differential diagnosis and the often extensive yet inconclusive workup. We investigated the rates and characteristics of unplanned 30-day readmissions in adult patients hospitalized with IBS. In addition, we identified factors that predict readmission within 30 days of initial discharge. Methods We analyzed the 2020 Nationwide Readmission Database. Using the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification code, we identified hospitalizations in adult patients with IBS. We excluded hospitalizations for minors and planned or elective readmissions. To compare baseline characteristics between readmissions and index hospitalizations, χ2 tests were employed. We used multivariate Cox regression analyses to identify independent predictors of readmissions. Results A total of 5,729 adult hospitalizations with IBS as the primary diagnosis were discharged alive, and 638 (11.1%) readmissions occurred within 30 days. The most common diagnoses associated with readmission were noninfective gastroenteritis and colitis, sepsis, enterocolitis due to Clostridium difficile, and irritable bowel syndrome with or without diarrhea. Patients in readmissions had a mean age of 56.3 years, similar to index hospitalizations (54.5 years, p=0.093). Readmissions had a higher burden of comorbidity (Charlson comorbidity index (CMI) scores ≥3: 26.7%, 170 cases vs. 16.6%, 953 cases; p<0.001) and were mostly Medicare beneficiaries (49.5%, 316% vs. 44.9%, 2,578) compared with index hospitalizations. Readmissions had a longer mean length of stay (LOS) (5.2 vs. 3.6 days, p<0.0001), higher inpatient mortality (0.8%, 5% vs. 0.2%, 11; p=0.032), and higher mean hospital costs ($47,852 vs. $34,592; p<0.0001) compared with index admissions. Secondary diagnoses of ulcerative colitis (adjusted hazard ratio (AHR), 2.82; p<0.0001), interstitial cystitis (AHR, 5.37; p=0.007), peripheral vascular disease (AHR, 1.59; p=0.027), and discharge to short-term hospitals (AHR, 1.03; p<0.0001) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of readmission within 30 days. Conclusion IBS readmissions have poorer outcomes than index hospitalizations. Patients with an existing history of ulcerative colitis, interstitial cystitis, and peripheral vascular disease and those discharged to short-term hospitals following index hospitalization are more likely to be readmitted within 30 days.

Heart Rate Variability-An Index of the Efficacy of Complementary Therapies in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), as a functional and psychosomatic disease, reduces the quality of life and increases the risk of developing mental disorders. Deregulation of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is one of the main causes of the disease. The objective of the present study was to identify the studies in which measurements of heart rate variability (HRV) were performed before and after therapeutic intervention, and to evaluate the effectiveness of IBS therapy in terms of a reduction of IBS symptoms and changes in autonomic tone. A systematic review of the literature was carried out in accordance with PRISMA standards. Six databases were searched for articles published before 2022: PubMed®, MEDLINE®, EBSCO, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria were experimental design, diagnosis of IBS (medical and/or diagnosis in accordance with the Rome Criteria), non-pharmacological intervention, and HRV measurement before and after the intervention. The quality of the studies was assessed by JBI Critical appraisal. In total, 455 studies were identified, of which, sixwere included in the review. Expected changes in HRV (increase in parasympathetic activity) were observed in four of the six studies (interventions studied: ear acupressure, transcutaneous auricular vagusnerve stimulation, cognitive behavioral therapy with relaxation elements, yoga). In the same studies, therapeutic interventions significantly reduced the symptoms of IBS. The present review indicated that interventions under investigation improve the efficiency of the ANS and reduce the symptoms of IBS. It is advisable to include HRV measurements as a measure of the effectiveness of interventions in IBS therapy, and to assess autonomic changes as a moderator of the effectiveness of IBS therapy.

Epidemiology, Clinical Features, and Prescribing Patterns of Irritable Bowel Syndrome in Taiwan

Background: Understanding the prescribing patterns could better inform irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) management and health policy. However, there is no study on prescribing patterns of IBS in Taiwan. This study was conducted to evaluate the epidemiology, clinical features, and prescribing patterns of IBS in Taiwan.

Methods: This population-based cross-sectional study was performed by retrieving claim data from National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) between 2011 and 2018 in Taiwan. Patients who were diagnosed with IBS during 2012–2018 and more than 20 years old were included. The annual incidence and prevalence of IBS were estimated. The characteristics and prescribing pattern were evaluated among IBS population. The population with IBS were followed from index date until 1 year after or death.

Results: A total of 1691596 patients diagnosed with IBS were identified from 2012 to 2018. The average annual incidence and prevalence of IBS in Taiwan were calculated as 106.54 and 181.75 per 10,000 population. The incidence and prevalence showed a decreasing trend from 2012 to 2018. Hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic liver disease, peptic ulcer, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), anxiety, and sleep disorder were the prevalent comorbidities in IBS population. At 1 year after IBS diagnosis, the rates of peptic ulcer and GERD; the utilizations of abdominal ultrasonography, upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, and lower GI endoscopy; the prescribing rate of propulsives, simethicone, antacids, H2-blockers, and proton pump inhibitors significantly increased. Approximately 70% of participants received IBS-related treatment. Antispasmodics was the most frequently prescribed medication class, followed by laxatives and antidiarrheals. Only 48.58% of patients made return visit for IBS at 1 year after IBS diagnosis. Consequently, the proportion of consultation for IBS and the prescribing rates of all medications were decreased considerably after IBS diagnosis.

Conclusion: The incidence and prevalence of IBS showed a decreasing trend from 2012 to 2018. More than two-third of patients received treatment for IBS. Antispasmodics was widely used for IBS management. However, patients may have a short symptom duration or receive a short course of IBS-related treatment in Taiwan. These findings provided the whole picture of the epidemiology and prescribing pattern of the IBS population in Taiwan.

Multisite Pain Is Highly Prevalent in Children with Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Is Associated with Increased Morbidity

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the types of multisite pain experienced by children with functional abdominal pain disorders (FAPDs) and to examine differences in psychosocial distress, functional disability, and health-related quality of life in children with multisite pain vs abdominal pain alone.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study of children ages 7-17 years (n = 406) with pediatric Rome III FAPDs recruited from both primary and tertiary care between January 2009 and June 2018. Subjects completed 14-day pain and stool diaries, as well as validated questionnaires assessing abdominal and nonabdominal pain symptoms, anxiety, depression, functional disability, and health-related quality of life.

RESULTS

In total, 295 (73%) children endorsed at least 1 co-occurring nonabdominal pain, thus, were categorized as having multisite pain with the following symptoms: 172 (42%) headaches, 143 (35%) chest pain, 134 (33%) muscle soreness, 110 (27%) back pain, 94 (23%) joint pain, and 87 (21%) extremity (arms and legs) pain. In addition, 200 children (49%) endorsed 2 or more nonabdominal pain symptoms. Participants with (vs without) multisite pain had significantly higher abdominal pain frequency (P < .001) and severity (P = .03), anxiety (P < .001), and depression (P < .001). Similarly, children with multisite pain (vs without) had significantly worse functional disability (P < .001) and health-related quality of life scores (P < .001). Increasing number of multisite pain sites (P < .001) was associated with increased functional disability when controlling for demographic and other clinical factors.

CONCLUSIONS

In children with FAPDs, nonabdominal multisite pain is highly prevalent and is associated with increased psychosocial distress, abdominal pain frequency and severity, functional disability, and lower health-related quality of life.

Evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for irritable bowel syndrome 2020

Managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has attracted international attention because single-agent therapy rarely relieves bothersome symptoms for all patients. The Japanese Society of Gastroenterology (JSGE) published the first edition of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for IBS in 2015. Much more evidence has accumulated since then, and new pharmacological agents and non-pharmacological methods have been developed. Here, we report the second edition of the JSGE-IBS guidelines comprising 41 questions including 12 background questions on epidemiology, pathophysiology, and diagnostic criteria, 26 clinical questions on diagnosis and treatment, and 3 questions on future research. For each question, statements with or without recommendations and/or evidence level are given and updated diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms are provided based on new evidence. Algorithms for diagnosis are requisite for patients with chronic abdominal pain or associated symptoms and/or abnormal bowel movement. Colonoscopy is indicated for patients with one or more alarm symptoms/signs, risk factors, and/or abnormal routine examination results. The diagnosis is based on the Rome IV criteria. Step 1 therapy consists of diet therapy, behavioral modification, and gut-targeted pharmacotherapy for 4 weeks. For non-responders, management proceeds to step 2 therapy, which includes a combination of different mechanistic gut-targeted agents and/or psychopharmacological agents and basic psychotherapy for 4 weeks. Step 3 therapy is for non-responders to step 2 and comprises a combination of gut-targeted pharmacotherapy, psychopharmacological treatments, and/or specific psychotherapy. These updated JSGE-IBS guidelines present best practice strategies for IBS patients in Japan and we believe these core strategies can be useful for IBS diagnosis and treatment globally.

Utility of gastrointestinal ultrasound in functional gastrointestinal disorders: A narrative review

Gastrointestinal (GI) ultrasound (GIUS) is valuable in the evaluation of GI diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease, but its use in functional GI disorders (FGIDs) is largely unknown although promising. In order to review the current knowledge on current and potential uses of GIUS in FGIDs, information was obtained via a structured literature search through PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases with a combination of MESH and keyword search terms: “ultrasound”, “functional GI disorders”, “irritable bowel syndrome”, “functional dyspepsia”, “intestinal ultrasound”, “point of care ultrasonography”, “transabdominal sonography”, “motility”, “faecal loading”, “constipation”. GIUS is currently used for various settings involving upper and lower GI tracts, including excluding organic diseases, evaluating physiology, guiding treatment options and building rapport with patients. GIUS can be potentially used to correlate mechanisms with symptoms, evaluate mechanisms behind treatment efficacy, and investigate further the origin of symptoms in real-time. In conclusion, GIUS is unique in its real-time, interactive and non-invasive nature, with the ability of evaluating several physiological mechanisms with one test, thus making it attractive in the evaluation and management of FGIDs. However, there are still limitations and concerns of operator dependence and lack of validation data for widespread implementation of GIUS in FGIDs.

Lower socioeconomic status is associated with an increased prevalence of comorbid anxiety and depression among patients with irritable bowel syndrome: results from a multicenter cohort

Background/Aims: Anxiety and depression are common comorbid psychiatric disorders in IBS patients, but the population-level determinants influencing these comorbidities in IBS patients are poorly understood. We sought to determine whether there was an association between comorbid affective disorders and socioeconomic status among irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients. Methods: We assembled a retrospective cohort of 1074 IBS patients with comorbid Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and/or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) seen at two tertiary referral centers between 2007 and 2015. IBS patients with comorbid GAD and/or MDD were matched 3:1 by age, sex, and race to controls with IBS and no history of comorbid GAD and/or MDD. Socioeconomic status was approximated by patient zip codes. Results: IBS patients in the lowest socioeconomic group were more likely to be diagnosed with GAD and/or MDD compared to controls (OR = 1.38, p = .0004). The median average per capita income for comorbid GAD/MDD IBS patient cohort was also significantly lower than the control IBS patient cohort ($39,880.50 vs. $41,277.00, p = .02). Conclusions: Among IBS patients, the presence of comorbid Generalized Anxiety Disorder and/or Major Depressive Disorder is associated with lower socioeconomic status and lower average per capita income. These findings speak to a biopsychosocial model of illness, which should be considered by clinicians in the care of IBS patients.

Healthcare use by 30,000 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in France: a 5-year retrospective and one-year prospective national observational study

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be responsible for alteration in quality of life and economic burden. The aim of this study was to evaluate healthcare use related to this disorder in France.

METHODS

The French health data system was used to select adults covered by the general health scheme (87% of population) through their first IBS hospitalization in 2015. We studied the healthcare refunded during the previous 5 years, 1 year before and after hospitalization.

RESULTS

Among 43.7 million adults who used refunded healthcare in 2015, 29,509 patients were identified (0.07, 33% males, 67% females, mean age 52 years, 30% admitted through emergency room). During their hospitalization, 33% had upper endoscopy and 64% colonoscopy. Over the five previous years, 3% had at least one hospitalization with an IBS diagnosis, 58% had abdominal ultrasonography, 27% CT scan, 21% upper endoscopy, 13% colonoscopy and 83% a gastroenterologist visit. The year before, these rates were respectively: 0, 36, 16, 6, 4 and 78%. Some of those rates decreased the year after the hospitalization with respectively: 1, 27, 13, 5, 4 and 19%. The year before, 65% had at least one CRP dosage (13% three or more), 58% a TSH dosage (7%) and 8% a test for coeliac diseases (1%) and the year after: 44% (8%), 43% (5%) and 3% (0.3%). At least one refund of a drug used to treat IBS was found for 85% of patients 5 years before, 65% one year before and 51% one year after.

CONCLUSION

This first study using French health data system for healthcare consumption assessment in IBS points out the repetition of outpatient visits, examinations and in particular radiological examinations, without a strong decrease after hospitalization for IBS and gastroenterologist visit.

Experiences of the effects of physical activity in persons with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): a qualitative content analysis

OBJECTIVE

Increased physical activity has been tested among patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in a randomized trial which demonstrated improvement in gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. The patients' experiences of the effects of physical activity on IBS symptoms are unknown. This knowledge is necessary to enable suitable support from health care professionals. The aim of this study was therefore to explore patients' experiences of the effects of physical activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Deep interviews were conducted with 15 patients (10 women and 5 men) aged 31-78 years. Their IBS had lasted for 10-57 years. The transcribed interviews were analyzed through a qualitative content analysis.

RESULTS

The analysis of the material revealed three themes; GI symptoms, extra-intestinal symptoms, and quality of life (QOL). In relation to GI symptoms, the patients discussed how physical activity affected these symptoms and how they used physical activity to normalize and control their GI symptoms. Extra-intestinal symptoms were also affected by physical activity, and the patients described how they experienced a general bodily wellbeing as well as improved mood and energy in relation to physical activity. In terms of QOL, the patients discussed their perspectives on physical activity as giving them achievements, being pleasurable, and being strengthening of the self.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results emphasize the importance of taking into account the patient's experiences of the effects of physical activity when coaching patients with IBS to be physically active. Using a person-centred approach incorporating, the patient's own experiences and resources is the key to successfully promoting physical activity in the clinic.

Primary healthcare utilisation and self-rated health among patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What are the impacts of comorbidities, gastrointestinal symptom burden, sense of coherence and stress?

OBJECTIVES

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease associated with impaired quality of life and an increased use of healthcare services. Self-ratings of health have proven a powerful predictor of health outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the unique impacts of comorbidities, gastrointestinal symptoms, perceived stress and sense of coherence on the number of healthcare contacts and self-rated health of IBS patients in Swedish primary care.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 186 primary-care IBS patients and 360 non-IBS patients (as a reference group) were administrated a test battery of validated questionnaires. Data on comorbidities and healthcare-seeking frequency were obtained from a registry.

RESULTS

In the reduced multivariable logistic regression model, average days of abdominal pain/week (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.72-0.96), age (OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92-0.97) and sense of coherence (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.03-1.11) remained independent, statistically significant predictors of IBS (and non-IBS) patients reporting good health. Only the number of comorbidities in general (OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.14-1.32) and sleep disorders in particular (OR = 5.40, 95% CI = 1.85-15.76) independently predicted high levels of primary healthcare utilisation among IBS patients.

CONCLUSION

Lack of gastrointestinal symptoms, a high sense of coherence and younger age were associated with better self-rated health in both IBS and non-IBS patients. The number of comorbidities in general and sleep disorders in particular were associated with frequent PHC contacts in IBS patients. The association between frequent primary-care contacts and sleep disorders was not seen in the control group, indicating a unique association with IBS patients.

Investigating Gut Permeability in Animal Models of Disease

A growing number of investigations report the association between gut permeability and intestinal or extra-intestinal disorders under the basis that translocation of gut luminal contents could affect tissue function, either directly or indirectly. Still, in many cases it is unknown whether disruption of the gut barrier is a causative agent or a consequence of these conditions. Adequate experimental models are therefore required to further understand the pathophysiology of health disorders associated to gut barrier disruption and to develop and test pharmacological treatments. Here, we review the current animal models that display enhanced intestinal permeability, and discuss (1) their suitability to address mechanistic questions, such as the association between gut barrier alterations and disease and (2) their validity to test potential treatments for pathologies that are characterized by enhanced intestinal permeability.

Episodic Migraine Comorbidities: Avoiding Pitfalls and Taking Therapeutic Opportunities

Migraine is a common neurologic disorder. This article will discuss a few factors that influence migraine (mostly episodic) and its treatment, such as sleep, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), obesity, and affective disorders, as well as autoimmune diseases. Practitioners must be aware of these coexisting conditions (comorbidities) as they affect treatment. It is noted in literature that both the quantity (too much or too few hours) and the quality (OSA related) of sleep may worsen migraine frequency. An associated risk factor for OSA, obesity also increases migraine frequency in episodic migraine cases. A bidirectional relationship with migraine along with depression and anxiety is debated in the literature. Retrospective cohort studies are undecided and lack statistical significance, but prospective studies do show promising results on treatment of anxiety and depression as a means of improving migraine control. Finally, we address the topic of autoimmune diseases and migraine. While few studies exist at this time, there are cohort study groups looking into the association between rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and antiphospholipid antibody. There is also evidence for the link between migraine and vascular diseases, including coronary and cerebral diseases. We suggest that these comorbid conditions be taken into account and individualized for each patient along with their pharmaceutical regimen. Physicians should seek a multifactorial treatment plan including diet, exercise, and healthy living to reduce migraine frequency.

Factors associated with more frequent diagnostic tests and procedures in patients with irritable bowel syndrome

BACKGROUND

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) reduces quality of life and burdens healthcare systems. This study identified factors associated with frequent use of IBS diagnostic tests and procedures.

METHODS

Using a United States claims database (2001-2012), tests and procedures in IBS patients occurring in the 2-year study period (12 months before/following the first IBS diagnosis) were analyzed: endoscopy, GI transit testing, anorectal procedures, and radiologic imaging. Patients were classified based on test/procedure frequency (3+, 1-2, or 0). Multivariate logistic regression identified factors associated with more frequent tests/procedures.

RESULTS

Among 201,322 IBS patients, 41.7% had 3+ tests/procedures, 35.1% had 1-2, and 23.3% had 0. Patients with more tests/procedures were older [mean age 50.6 (3+ group), more likely to be female and had more comorbidities, including anxiety, depressive disorders, and somatization. Dyspepsia [odds ratio (95% confidence interval): 1.80 (1.72-1.87)], interstitial cystitis [1.60 (1.45-1.77)], gastroesophageal reflux disease [1.59 (1.55-1.63)], constipation [1.50 (1.45-1.54)], and dyspareunia [1.38 (1.25-1.52)] were significantly associated with more tests/procedures (3+ versus 1-2), while anxiety, depressive disorders, and somatization were not. Patients with more frequent specialist visits [emergency department (ED; 1.10 (1.09-1.11)) and gastroenterologists (1.26 (1.26-1.27))] or at least one GI-related ED visit or inpatient admission [1.95 (1.86-2.04) and 3.67 (3.48-3.87), respectively] were more likely to have more tests/procedures (all p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Test frequency in patients with IBS is strongly associated with demographic and clinical characteristics, especially comorbid conditions related to IBS. Presence of common overlapping comorbid conditions should increase clinicians' confidence in making the diagnosis of IBS, thus curtailing redundant testing and reducing healthcare costs.

Predictors of healthcare-seeking behavior among Chinese patients with irritable bowel syndrome

AIM

To analyze predictors of healthcare-seeking behavior among Chinese patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and their satisfaction with medical care.

METHODS

Participating patients met IBS Rome III criteria (excluding those with organic diseases) and were enrolled in an IBS database in a tertiary university hospital. Participants completed IBS questionnaires in face-to-face interviews. The questionnaires covered intestinal and extra-intestinal symptoms, medical consultations, colonoscopy, medications, and self-reported response to medications during the whole disease course and in the past year. Univariate associations and multivariate logistic regression were used to identify predictors for frequent healthcare-seeking behavior (≥ 3 times/year), frequent colonoscopies (≥ 2 times/year), long-term medications, and poor satisfaction with medical care.

RESULTS

In total, 516 patients (293 males, 223 females) were included. Participants’ average age was 43.2 ± 11.8 years. Before study enrollment, 55.2% had received medical consultations for IBS symptoms. Ordinary abdominal pain/discomfort (non-defecation) was an independent predictor for healthcare-seeking behavior (OR = 2.07, 95%CI: 1.31-3.27). Frequent colonoscopies were reported by 14.7% of patients (3.1 ± 1.4 times per year). Sensation of incomplete evacuation was an independent predictor for frequent colonoscopies (OR = 2.76, 95%CI: 1.35-5.67). During the whole disease course, 89% of patients took medications for IBS symptoms, and 14.7% reported they were satisfied with medical care. Patients with anxiety were more likely to report dissatisfaction with medical care (OR = 2.08, 95%CI: 1.20-3.59). In the past year, patients with severe (OR = 1.74, 95%CI: 1.06-2.82) and persistent (OR = 1.66, 95%CI: 1.01-2.72) IBS symptoms sought medical care more frequently.

CONCLUSION

Chinese patients with IBS present high rates of frequent healthcare-seeking behavior, colonoscopies, and medications, and low satisfaction with medical care. Intestinal symptoms are major predictors for healthcare-seeking behavior.

Irritable bowel symptoms and the development of common mental disorders and functional somatic syndromes identified in secondary care - a long-term, population-based study

Objective

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with mental vulnerability, and half of patients report comorbid somatic and mental symptoms. We aimed to investigate the relationship between an IBS symptom continuum and the subsequent development of common mental disorders (CMDs) and functional somatic syndromes (FSSs).

Methods and study design

A longitudinal population-based study comprising two 5-year follow-up studies, Dan-MONICA 1 (1982–1987) and Inter99 (1999–2004), recruited from the western part of Copenhagen County. The total study population (n = 7,278) was divided into symptom groups according to the degree of IBS definition fulfillment at baseline and/or follow-up and was followed until December 2013 in Danish central registries. Cox regression was used for the analyses, adjusting for age, sex, length of education and cohort membership. In a subsequent analysis, we adjusted for mental vulnerability as a risk factor for both CMDs and FSSs, including IBS.

Results

Over a 5-year period, 51% patients had no IBS symptoms, 17% patients had IBS symptoms without abdominal pain, 22% patients had IBS symptoms including abdominal pain and 10% patients fulfilled the IBS definition. IBS and IBS symptoms including abdominal pain were significantly associated with the development of CMDs and other FSSs identified in secondary care. When adjusting for mental vulnerability, IBS and IBS symptoms including abdominal pain were no longer associated with CMDs, but the significant relationship to other FSSs remained.

Conclusion

In a clinical setting, the perspective should be broadened to individuals not fulfilling the symptom cluster of IBS but who report frequent abdominal pain. Additionally, it is important to combine symptom-based criteria of IBS with psychosocial markers such as mental vulnerability, because it could guide clinicians in decisions regarding prognosis and treatment.

Economic burden of irritable bowel syndrome in China

AIM

To estimate annual direct and indirect costs for patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and subtypes.

METHODS

Patients completed a standardized questionnaire concerning usage of healthcare resources, travel costs, meals, and productivity loss of patients when seeking treatment for IBS. Total annual costs per patient were calculated as the sum of direct (including medical and nonmedical) and indirect costs. Total annual costs per patient among various IBS subtypes were compared. Analysis of variance and bootstrapped independent sample t-tests were performed to determine differences between groups after controlling for IBS subtypes.

RESULTS

A total of 105 IBS patients (64.80% female), mean age of 57.12 years ± 10.31 years), mean disease duration of 4.31 years ± 5.40 years, were included. Total annual costs per patient were estimated as CNY18262.84 (USD2933.08). Inpatient and outpatient healthcare use were major cost drivers, accounting for 46.41%and 23.36% of total annual costs, respectively. Productivity loss accounted for 25.32% of total annual costs. The proportions of direct and indirect costs were similar to published studies in other countries. Nationally, the total costs of managing IBS would amount to CNY123.83 billion (USD1.99 billion). Among the IBS subtypes, total annual costs per patient of IBS-M was highest at CNY18891.18 (USD3034). Furthermore, there was significant difference in productivity loss among IBS subtypes (P = 0.031).

CONCLUSION

IBS imposes a huge economic burden on patients and healthcare systems, which could account for 3.3% of the total healthcare budget for the entire Chinese nation. More than two-thirds of total annual costs of IBS consist of inpatient and outpatient healthcare use. Among the subtypes, IBS-M patients appear to have the greatest economic burden but require further confirmation.

Diagnosis and treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. The economic impact of IBS on the health care system is substantial, as is the personal impact on patients. Patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) comprise a substantial proportion of the overall IBS population. Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for patients with IBS-D and can accurately diagnose IBS after a careful history and examination without extensive diagnostic tests. Several pharmacologic treatments (eg, loperamide, alosetron, and antidepressants) and non-pharmacologic treatments (eg, dietary modification and probiotics) are available for IBS-D, but restrictions on use (eg, alosetron) or the lack of controlled trial data showing reductions in both global and individual IBS-D symptoms (eg, bloating, pain and stool frequency) emphasize the need for alternative treatment options. Two newer medications (eluxadoline and rifaximin) were approved in May 2015 for the treatment of IBS-D, and represent new treatment options for this common gastrointestinal condition.

Diagnosis and treatment of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most common gastrointestinal disorders worldwide. The economic impact of IBS on the health care system is substantial, as is the personal impact on patients. Patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) comprise a substantial proportion of the overall IBS population. Primary care providers are often the first point of contact for patients with IBS-D and can accurately diagnose IBS after a careful history and examination without extensive diagnostic tests. Several pharmacologic treatments (eg, loperamide, alosetron, and antidepressants) and non-pharmacologic treatments (eg, dietary modification and probiotics) are available for IBS-D, but restrictions on use (eg, alosetron) or the lack of controlled trial data showing reductions in both global and individual IBS-D symptoms (eg, bloating, pain and stool frequency) emphasize the need for alternative treatment options. Two newer medications (eluxadoline and rifaximin) were approved in May 2015 for the treatment of IBS-D, and represent new treatment options for this common gastrointestinal condition.

Predictors of health-related quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome. A cross-sectional study in Norway

Background

Reduced quality of life (QoL) is often the main problem for patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This study aimed at finding predictors of reduced physical and mental quality of life (QoL) accessible for intervention.

Methods

Consecutive patients with IBS (according to the Rome II criteria) visiting a general practitioner were included in a prospective cohort study and followed up for 6−9 months. At the last visit, information about sociodemographic characteristics, abdominal complaints, QoL and a range of physical and mental comorbidities were collected. Physical and mental QoL were measured with the generic QoL instrument Short Form-12 Physical Component Score (SF-12 PCS) and Short Form-12 Mental Component Score (SF-12 MCS) respectively. The normal scores are 50. This cross-sectional study used data from the last visit.

Results

Out of 208 patients included in the cohort study, 149 (female/male: 105/44) with a mean age of 52 years (SD 15.3) were available for the analyses. Physical and mental QoL were reduced, the mean SF-12 PCS and SF-12 MCS scores were 38.4 (SD 11.9) and 45.0 (SD 11.3) respectively. The main independent predictors of low SF-12 PCS and SF-12 MCS were subjective health complaints and organic diseases, and affective disorders respectively. The severity of IBS symptoms was of minor clinical importance.

Conclusions

To help patients with IBS and reduced QoL, treatment should focus on QoL and not on relief of IBS symptoms. The different causes of reduced physical and mental QoL make an individually directed treatment necessary.

More negative self-esteem and inferior coping strategies among patients diagnosed with IBS compared with patients without IBS--a case-control study in primary care

Background

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic, relapsing gastrointestinal disorder, that affects approximately 10% of the general population and the majority are diagnosed in primary care. IBS has been reported to be associated with altered psychological and cognitive functioning such as mood disturbances, somatization, catastrophizing or altered visceral interoception by negative emotions and stress. The aim was to investigate the psychosocial constructs of self-esteem and sense of coherence among IBS patients compared to non-IBS patients in primary care.

Methods

A case–control study in primary care setting among IBS patients meeting the ROME III criteria (n = 140) compared to controls i.e. non-IBS patients (n = 213) without any present or previous gastrointestinal complaints. The data were collected through self-reported questionnaires of psychosocial factors.

Results

IBS-patients reported significantly more negative self-esteem (p < 0.001), lower scores for positive self-esteem (p < 0.001), and lower sense of coherence (p < 0.001) than the controls. The IBS-cases were also less likely to report ‘good’ health status (p < 0.001) and less likely to report a positive belief in the future (p < 0.001). After controlling for relevant confounding factors in multiple regressions, the elevation in negative self-esteem among IBS patients remained statistically significant (p = 0.02), as did the lower scores for sense of coherence among IBS cases (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The more frequently reported negative self-esteem and inferior coping strategies among IBS patients found in this study suggest the possibility that psychological therapies might be helpful for these patients. However these data do not indicate the causal direction of the observed associations. More research is therefore warranted to determine whether these psychosocial constructs are more frequent in IBS patients.

Stress-induced visceral pain: toward animal models of irritable-bowel syndrome and associated comorbidities

Visceral pain is a global term used to describe pain originating from the internal organs, which is distinct from somatic pain. It is a hallmark of functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable-bowel syndrome (IBS). Currently, the treatment strategies targeting visceral pain are unsatisfactory, with development of novel therapeutics hindered by a lack of detailed knowledge of the underlying mechanisms. Stress has long been implicated in the pathophysiology of visceral pain in both preclinical and clinical studies. Here, we discuss the complex etiology of visceral pain reviewing our current understanding in the context of the role of stress, gender, gut microbiota alterations, and immune functioning. Furthermore, we review the role of glutamate, GABA, and epigenetic mechanisms as possible therapeutic strategies for the treatment of visceral pain for which there is an unmet medical need. Moreover, we discuss the most widely described rodent models used to model visceral pain in the preclinical setting. The theory behind, and application of, animal models is key for both the understanding of underlying mechanisms and design of future therapeutic interventions. Taken together, it is apparent that stress-induced visceral pain and its psychiatric comorbidities, as typified by IBS, has a multifaceted etiology. Moreover, treatment strategies still lag far behind when compared to other pain modalities. The development of novel, effective, and specific therapeutics for the treatment of visceral pain has never been more pertinent.

Mechanisms underlying the analgesic effect of moxibustion on visceral pain in irritable bowel syndrome: a review

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder that causes recurrent abdominal (visceral) pain. Epidemiological data show that the incidence rate of IBS is as high as 25%. Most of the medications may lead to tolerance, addiction and toxic side effects. Moxibustion is an important component of traditional Chinese medicine and has been used to treat IBS-like abdominal pain for several thousand years in China. As a mild treatment, moxibustion has been widely applied in clinical treatment of visceral pain in IBS. In recent years, it has played an irreplaceable role in alternative medicine. Extensive clinical studies have demonstrated that moxibustion for treatment of visceral pain is simple, convenient, and inexpensive, and it is being accepted by an increasing number of patients. There have not been many studies investigating the analgesic mechanisms of moxibustion. Studies exploring the analgesic mechanisms have mainly focused on visceral hypersensitivity, brain-gut axis neuroendocrine system, and immune system. This paper reviews the latest developments in moxibustion use for treatment of visceral pain in IBS from these perspectives. It also evaluates potential problems in relevant studies on the mechanisms of moxibustion therapy to promote the application of moxibustion in the treatment of IBS.

Acupuncture-moxibustion in treating irritable bowel syndrome: how does it work?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional intestinal disease characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel habits. It has drawn great attention because of its high prevalence, reoccurring symptoms, and severe influence on patients' lives. Many clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of acupuncture-moxibustion in treating IBS. Increasing attention has been paid to research regarding the action mechanisms of acupuncture-moxibustion for IBS, and the adoption of modern techniques has achieved some progress. This article reviews the latest advances among action mechanism studies from the perspectives of gastrointestinal motility, visceral hypersensitivity, the brain-gut axis, the neuroendocrine system, and the immune system. It is shown that acupuncture-moxibustion can effectively regulate the above items, and thus, this treatment should have a high efficacy in the treatment of IBS. This article also identifies existing problems in current mechanism research and raises several ideas for future studies. Further revelations regarding these action mechanisms will promote the application of acupuncture-moxibustion in treating IBS.

Chemotactic chemokines are important in the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most frequently diagnosed disorders, affecting about 20% of the general population in Western countries. This syndrome poses an enormous socio-economic burden, impairs the quality of life substantially, and increases healthcare costs. IBS can be classified as either idiopathic (ID-IBS) with unknown etiology or post-infectious (PI-IBS), which develops after a bout of acute diarrhea or gastroenteritis. Little is known about the immunopathogenesis of these two forms of IBS. We evaluated various biomarkers in clinical samples of ID-IBS and PI-IBS patients with the goal to test the hypothesis that the immunologic presentations of these forms of IBS are similar, despite their apparent different etiologic origins. Sera and stool samples from PI-IBS, ID-IBS, and healthy volunteers were analyzed for relative amounts of 36 different biomarkers using the Proteome Profiler Human Cytokine Array Panel A Kit and quantitative ELISA. Our results demonstrated significantly high levels of chemotactic chemokines monocytes chemotactic protein-1 (CCL2) [p-value  = 0.003], macrophage inflammatory protein-1β (CCL4) [p-value  = 0.010], and CXCL16 (p-value 0.001) in the sera and stools of both ID-IBS and PI-IBS patients. Furthermore, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-1β, and TNF-α) were significantly higher in IBS patients. Anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-10, IL-4, and IL-13) were variable except IL-10, which was significantly higher in the healthy volunteers than the IBS patients. Remarkably, the amounts and expression pattern of these biomarkers were not significantly different between ID-IBS and PI-IBS. Thus, ID-IBS and PI-IBS present similar immunologic and clinical phenotypes, in spite of their different etiologic origins.