Role of visceral sensitivity in the pathophysiology of irritable bowel syndrome.
Visceral hypersensitivity has been recognised as a characteristic of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It may be involved in the pathogenesis of abdominal pain/discomfort, and seems to result from the sensitisation of nerve afferent pathways originating from the gastrointestinal tract. From a clinical point of view, hypersensitivity, although frequent, is not a constant finding among patients with IBS and cannot therefore be considered as a diagnostic marker of the condition. The advances made in understanding visceral hypersensitivity in patients with IBS are reviewed: the factors that influence abdominal distension are defined and different therapeutic perspectives are examined.
Delvaux
M
M
Gastroenterology Unit, CHU Rangueil, Toulouse, France. 106521.3337@compuserve.com
D003109:Colonic Diseases, Functional / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004064:Digestive System / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D006930:Hyperalgesia / Q000503:physiopathology; D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents / Q000502:physiology; D009619:Nociceptors / Q000502:physiology*; D012677:Sensation / Q000502:physiology*; D012684:Sensory Thresholds / Q000502:physiology; D017833:Visceral Afferents / Q000503:physiopathology*
D018377:Neurotransmitter Agents