title: Subtypes of functional dyspepsia.
abstract: Functional dyspepsia is a common clinical condition characterised by chronic or recurrent upper abdominal pain or discomfort commonly associated with a variety of associated gastrointestinal symptoms and a normal endoscopy. To standardise research-based approaches, an initial categorisation of into sub groups was agreed to, based on clusters of symptoms. However the early expectation that these subgroups would be associated with distinct pathophysiologies amenable to specific therapy has not been realised. A classification based on the most troublesome symptom has been suggested but the utility of this is also unclear. More recent data suggest that some of the pathophysiologic dysfunctions may be associated with specific symptoms and so provide a better tool for grouping patients. But this approach remains incomplete as current insights into the pathogenesis are still too limited for this to be satisfactory. In conclusion, no classification provides for an adequate treatment-based approach to the syndrome of functional dyspepsia. As a consequence treatment remains largely empiric.
authors.affiliation: Department of Gastroenterology, Repatriation General Hospital and Flinders Medical Centre, Australia.
authors.forename: Georgina
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Baker
authors.forename: Robert J
authors.initials: RJ
authors.lastname: Fraser
authors.forename: Graeme
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Young
mesh_terms: D000863:Antacids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004415:Dyspepsia / Q000145:classification* / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D005769:Gastrointestinal Motility / Q000502:physiology; D041981:Gastrointestinal Tract / Q000294:innervation; D016481:Helicobacter Infections / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology; D016480:Helicobacter pylori; D006801:Humans; D011584:Psychology; D013276:Stomach Ulcer / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D000863:Antacids; D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents