Prevalence of extra-intestinal symptoms according to irritable bowel syndrome subtype.

BACKGROUND: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder commonly associated with extra-intestinal symptoms. However, the prevalence of these symptoms according to IBS subtype is not well established. AIM: To compare the prevalence of extra-intestinal symptoms among patients with different subtypes of IBS. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study including patients with IBS according to Rome IV criteria was performed between July 2022 and April 2023. Patients were classified according their subtype of IBS: IBS-D (diarrhea-predominant), IBS-C (constipation-predominant), and IBS-M (mixed bowel habits). Patients completed the IBS severity scoring system questionnaire (IBS-SSS) to determine severity of IBS symptoms and patient health questionnaire- 9 (PHQ-9) to define presence and severity of depressive symptoms. The prevalence of reported extra-intestinal symptoms was also assessed and compared between groups. KEY RESULTS: A total of 4862 patients with IBS were included; 608 IBS-D (12.5%), 1978 IBS-C (40.7%), and 2276 IBS-M (46.8%). Patients with IBS-C had significantly lower IBS-symptoms severity (mean IBS-SSS 290 vs. 310 and 320 for IBS-D and IBS-M, respectively, p = 0.03). The prevalence of obesity was also significantly lower in these patients (17.1% vs. 30.9% IBS-D and 27.9% IBS-M, p = 0.0001). Patients with IBS-D showed a significantly higher prevalence of food intolerance perception (9.5%, p = 0.03), history of cholecystectomy (17.8%, p = 0.03), and fecal incontinence (36.2%, p = 0.0001) as compared to the other groups. Patients with IBS-M had significantly higher mean PHQ-9 score (12.7 vs. 11.1 IBS-D and 10.5 IBS-C, p = 0.001) and prevalence of depressive symptoms (80.0%, p = 0.01). Patients with IBS-M also had higher prevalence of extra-intestinal symptoms such as arthralgia (62.4%, p = 0.0001), extremity numbness (64.5%, p = 0.0001), atopic dermatitis (28.2%, p = 0.02), and chronic cervicalgia (81.0%, p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES: The prevalence of most extra-intestinal symptoms is higher among patients with IBS-M. Further research is needed to better characterize IBS subtypes, which could potentially help refining tailored therapeutic strategies.

Comparison of the epidemiology of disorders of gut-brain interaction in four Latin American countries: Results of The Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study.

BACKGROUND: In Latin America, there are scarce data on the epidemiology of DGBI. The Rome Foundation Global Epidemiology Study (RFGES) Internet survey included 26 countries, four from Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico, with a 40.3% prevalence of Rome IV DGBI. We aimed at comparing the prevalence of DGBI and associated factors among these countries. METHODS: The frequency of DGBI by anatomical region, specific diagnoses, sex, age, diet, healthcare access, anxiety, depression, and HRQOL, were analyzed and compared. RESULTS: Subjects included Argentina n = 2057, Brazil = 2004, Colombia = 2007, and Mexico = 2001. The most common DGBI were bowel (35.5%), gastroduodenal (11.9%), and anorectal (10.0%). Argentina had the highest prevalence of functional diarrhea (p = 0.006) and IBS-D; Brazil, esophageal, gastroduodenal disorders, and functional dyspepsia; Mexico functional heartburn (all <0.001). Overall, DGBI were more common in women vs. men and decreased with age. Bowel disorders were more common in the 18-39 (46%) vs. 40-64-year (39%) groups. Diet was also different between those with DGBI vs. those without with subtle differences between countries. Subjects endorsing criteria for esophageal, gastroduodenal, and anorectal disorders from Mexico, more commonly consulted physicians for bowel symptoms vs. those from Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia. General practitioners were the most frequently consulted, by Mexicans (50.42%) and Colombians (40.80%), followed by gastroenterologists. Anxiety and depression were more common in DGBI individuals in Argentina and Brazil vs. Mexico and Colombia, and they had lower HRQOL. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of upper and lower DGBI, as well as the burden of illness, psychological impact and HRQOL, differ between these Latin American countries.

Impact of Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 on Bacterial Overgrowth and Composition of Intestinal Microbiota in Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome Patients: Results of a Randomized Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is associated with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). Probiotics like Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 (Sb) may be efficacious in balancing the microbiota. This randomized open label study assessed the effect of Sb in patients with bacterial overgrowth associated with IBS-D and its impact on the intestinal microbiota. METHODS: Patients were randomized to receive Sb + dietary advice (Sb + DA) or dietary advice (DA) only for 15 days. SIBO was assessed by the lactulose hydrogen breath test (LHBT). Symptoms were assessed with the IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) and stool consistency with the Bristol Stool Form Scale. Microbiota and mycobiota were analyzed by 16S rDNA and ITS2. RESULTS: 54 patients were included, among whom 48 (27 Sb + DA, 21 DA) were evaluated. Decrease of hydrogen excretion was slightly higher in Sb + DA group, 41% versus 29% in DA group, and IBS-SSS total score were reduced by -134 and -93, respectively. The proportion of patients with diarrhea was lower in the Sb + DA group than in the DA group (25.9% compared to 47.6%). Bacterial and fungal microbiota showed that Sb treatment was associated with several modifications. Interestingly, F. prausnitzii was more abundant in Sb-treated patients with marked clinical improvement. The safety of S. boulardii CNCM I-745 was excellent. CONCLUSIONS: In patients with SIBO, S. boulardii CNCM I-745 associated with dietary advice reduced bacterial overgrowth and improved digestive symptoms while restoring the intestinal microbiota. The increased abundance of F. prausnitzii coupled with symptom improvement merits further research.

[Brain gut microbiota axis. Importance in clinical practice]. / Eje cerebro intestino microbiota. Importancia en la práctica clínica.

The brain-gut-microbiota axis is a bidirectional complex that connects the central nervous system with the digestive system. Alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiota have been linked to the presence of digestive and extradigestive diseases such as neuropsychiatric diseases. Dysbiosis predisposes to the appearance of alterations in intestinal permeability, which facilitates the release of neurotransmitters and cytokines that generate favorable conditions for the appearance of a state known as neuroinflammation, which seems to be key in the physiopathogenesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. Based on these data, the modulation of the microbiota through changes in diet, antibiotics and probiotics could be a useful alternative, not only for the treatment of digestive diseases but also extra-digestive disorders such as neuropsychiatric diseases.

Functional Abdominal Cramping Pain: Expert Practical Guidance.

Functional abdominal cramping pain (FACP) is a common complaint, which may present either on its own or in association with a functional gastrointestinal disorder. It is likely caused by a variety of, probably partly unknown, etiologies. Effective management of FACP can be challenging owing to the lack of usable diagnostic tools and the availability of a diverse range of treatment approaches. Practical guidance for their selection and use is limited. The objective of this article is to present a working definition of FACP based on expert consensus, and to propose practical strategies for the diagnosis and management of this condition for physicians, pharmacists, and patients. A panel of experts on functional gastrointestinal disorders was convened to participate in workshop activities aimed at defining FACP and agreeing upon a recommended sequence of diagnostic criteria and management recommendations. The key principles forming the foundation of the definition of FACP and suggested management algorithms include the primacy of cramping pain as the distinguishing symptom; the importance of recognizing and acting upon alarm signals of potential structural disease; the recognition of known causes that might be addressed through lifestyle adjustment; and the central role of antispasmodics in the treatment of FACP. The proposed algorithm is intended to assist physicians in reaching a meaningful diagnostic endpoint based on patient-reported symptoms of FACP. We also discuss how this algorithm may be adapted for use by pharmacists and patients.

Eje cerebro intestino microbiota. Importancia en la práctica clínica

El eje cerebro-intestino-microbiota es un complejo bidireccional que comunica al sistema nervioso central con el aparato digestivo. Las alteraciones en la composición de la microbiota intestinal se han relacionado con la presencia de enfermedades digestivas y extradigestivas tales como las enfermedades neuropsiquiátricas. La disbiosis predispone a la aparición de alteraciones en la permeabilidad intestinal, lo cual facilita la liberación de neurotransmisores y citoquinas que generan las condiciones propicias para que aparezca un estado conocido como neuroinflamación, que parece ser clave en la fisiopatogenia de las enfermedades neuropsiquiátricas. En virtud de estos datos, la modulación de la microbiota a través de cambios en la dieta, antibióticos y probióticos, podría ser una alternativa útil, no sólo para el tratamiento de enfermedades digestivas sino también de trastornos extra digestivos como las enfermedades neuropsiquiátricas.

The brain-gut-microbiota axis is a bidirectional complex that connects the central nervous system with the digestive system. Alterations in the composition of the intestinal microbiota have been linked to the presence of digestive and extradigestive diseases such as neuropsychiatric diseases. Dysbiosis predisposes to the appearance of alterations in intestinal permeability, which facilitates the release of neurotransmitters and cytokines that generate favorable conditions for the appearance of a state known as neuroinflammation, which seems to be key in the physiopathogenesis of neuropsychiatric diseases. Based on these data, the modulation of the microbiota through changes in diet, antibiotics and probiotics could be a useful alternative, not only for the treatment of digestive diseases but also extra-digestive disorders such as neuropsychiatric diseases.

Antibiotics as Major Disruptors of Gut Microbiota.

Advances in culture-independent research techniques have led to an increased understanding of the gut microbiota and the role it plays in health and disease. The intestine is populated by a complex microbial community that is organized around a network of metabolic interdependencies. It is now understood that the gut microbiota is vital for normal development and functioning of the human body, especially for the priming and maturation of the adaptive immune system. Antibiotic use can have several negative effects on the gut microbiota, including reduced species diversity, altered metabolic activity, and the selection of antibiotic-resistant organisms, which in turn can lead to antibiotic-associated diarrhea and recurrent Clostridioides difficile infections. There is also evidence that early childhood exposure to antibiotics can lead to several gastrointestinal, immunologic, and neurocognitive conditions. The increase in the use of antibiotics in recent years suggests that these problems are likely to become more acute or more prevalent in the future. Continued research into the structure and function of the gut microbiota is required to address this challenge.

Síndrome de intestino irritable: la importancia de los antiespasmódicos / Irritable bowel syndrome. Relevance of antispasmodics

Resumen El síndrome de intestino irritable se caracteriza por la existencia de dolor abdominal relacionado con cambios en el ritmo evacuatorio. A pesar de los avances en el conocimiento de su fisiopatología y de la aparición de nuevas formas terapéuticas, los antiespasmódicos se han mantenido en el tiempo como una forma efectiva para el manejo de los síntomas de este síndrome, en especial para el dolor. Así pues, el propósito de esta revisión es la búsqueda de evidencia científica que soporte el uso de antiespasmódicos en el manejo de los síntomas del síndrome de intestino irritable.

Abstract Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder characterized by abdominal pain related to changes in bowel movements. Despite the progress made in the knowledge of its pathophysiology and the emergence of new therapeutic forms, antispasmodics have remained over time as an effective way to treat symptoms, especially pain. The purpose of this review is to search for scientific evidence on the use of antispasmodics in the treatment of irritable bowel symptoms.

Intestinal microbiota: its role in digestive diseases.

It is now well known that intestinal microbiota exerts not only several physiological functions, but has also been implied in the mechanisms of many conditions, both intestinal and extraintestinal. These advances, to the best of our knowledge, have been made possible by the development of new ways of studying gut flora. Metagenomics, the study of genetic material taken directly from environmental samples, avoiding individual culture, has become an excellent tool to study the human microbiota. Therefore, it has demonstrated an association between an altered intestinal microbiota and inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome, perhaps the most extensively studied conditions associated with this particular subject. However, microbiota has a potential role in the development of other diseases; their manifestations are not confined to the intestine only. In this article, an extensive updated review is conducted on the role intestinal microbiota has in health and in different diseases. Focus is made on the following conditions: inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, hepatic encephalopathy, and obesity.

A controlled pilot study on the efficacy of a low dose antibiotic for the treatment of chronic constipation in patients receiving a high fiber diet.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In a previous uncontrolled experiment, oral vancomycin improved the symptoms (S) of chronic constipation (CC). The aim of this 21 day controlled pilot study was to determine if a low lincomycin dose improved the S of CC patients unresponsive to a high fiber diet. METHODS: On days 0-to-10, patients were randomized to 500 mg oral lincomycin + high fiber (L + F) or to placebo + high fiber (P + F). Participants and patients were blinded. From days 10-to-21, patients were continued solely on the high fiber diet. The primary efficacy endpoint was the difference in S between L + F and P + F from days 0-to-21 using a visual analog scale (VAS) calibrated from 0 = severe S to 10 = asymptomatic. RESULTS: The means of all S were significantly improved by L + F but not by P + F. A significant higher proportion of L + F patients increased the VAS > or = 3 points. CONCLUSIONS: The initial course of L facilitated the effect of F probably by its effect on the colon flora. This sequence of flora-altering biologics + F may serve as model to replace chronic use of drugs.

[Irritable bowel syndrome: a functional disorder?]. / Sindrome de intestino irritable: ¿Un trastorno funcional?

Irritable bowel syndrome is a highly prevalent condition responsible for almost one third of visits to the gastroenterologist and huge expenses for diagnosis, treatment and loss of working days. A unique pathophysiologic mechanism has not been elucidated yet and several possibilities have been proposed such as senso-perception and motor disturbances, the effect of stress and anxiety, serotonin receptor failures, activation of abnormal brain areas and pain modulation differences, among others. The absence of a biological marker has led the investigators to consider this syndrome as an exclusion diagnostic condition, once the organic diseases have been discarded The changes in gut microbiota have recently raised great interest among gastroenterologists. The study of the small intestinal bowel overgrowth syndrome, the effect of antibiotics upon the flora, the recognition of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome and the action of probiotics, together with the effect of malabsortion of diet carbohydrates have brought some new light in our knowledge. The present update will focus on the published evidence about the subject, bearing in mind that the mechanisms elicited here are only suitable for a subgroup of patients.

Sindrome de intestino irritable: ¿Un trastorno funcional? / [Irritable bowel syndrome: a functional disorder?].

Irritable bowel syndrome is a highly prevalent condition responsible for almost one third of visits to the gastroenterologist and huge expenses for diagnosis, treatment and loss of working days. A unique pathophysiologic mechanism has not been elucidated yet and several possibilities have been proposed such as senso-perception and motor disturbances, the effect of stress and anxiety, serotonin receptor failures, activation of abnormal brain areas and pain modulation differences, among others. The absence of a biological marker has led the investigators to consider this syndrome as an exclusion diagnostic condition, once the organic diseases have been discarded The changes in gut microbiota have recently raised great interest among gastroenterologists. The study of the small intestinal bowel overgrowth syndrome, the effect of antibiotics upon the flora, the recognition of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome and the action of probiotics, together with the effect of malabsortion of diet carbohydrates have brought some new light in our knowledge. The present update will focus on the published evidence about the subject, bearing in mind that the mechanisms elicited here are only suitable for a subgroup of patients.

A controlled pilot study on the efficacy of a low dose antibiotic for the treatment of chronic constipation in patients receiving a high fiber diet / A controlled pilot study on the efficacy of a low dose antibiotic for the treatment of chronic constipation in patients receiving a high fiber diet.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In a previous uncontrolled experiment, oral vancomycin improved the symptoms (S) of chronic constipation (CC). The aim of this 21 day controlled pilot study was to determine if a low lincomycin dose improved the S of CC patients unresponsive to a high fiber diet. METHODS: On days 0-to-10, patients were randomized to 500 mg oral lincomycin + high fiber (L + F) or to placebo + high fiber (P + F). Participants and patients were blinded. From days 10-to-21, patients were continued solely on the high fiber diet. The primary efficacy endpoint was the difference in S between L + F and P + F from days 0-to-21 using a visual analog scale (VAS) calibrated from 0 = severe S to 10 = asymptomatic. RESULTS: The means of all S were significantly improved by L + F but not by P + F. A significant higher proportion of L + F patients increased the VAS > or = 3 points. CONCLUSIONS: The initial course of L facilitated the effect of F probably by its effect on the colon flora. This sequence of flora-altering biologics + F may serve as model to replace chronic use of drugs.

A controlled pilot study on the efficacy of a low dose antibiotic for the treatment of chronic constipation in patients receiving a high fiber diet. / A controlled pilot study on the efficacy of a low dose antibiotic for the treatment of chronic constipation in patients receiving a high fiber diet.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In a previous uncontrolled experiment, oral vancomycin improved the symptoms (S) of chronic constipation (CC). The aim of this 21 day controlled pilot study was to determine if a low lincomycin dose improved the S of CC patients unresponsive to a high fiber diet. METHODS: On days 0-to-10, patients were randomized to 500 mg oral lincomycin + high fiber (L + F) or to placebo + high fiber (P + F). Participants and patients were blinded. From days 10-to-21, patients were continued solely on the high fiber diet. The primary efficacy endpoint was the difference in S between L + F and P + F from days 0-to-21 using a visual analog scale (VAS) calibrated from 0 = severe S to 10 = asymptomatic. RESULTS: The means of all S were significantly improved by L + F but not by P + F. A significant higher proportion of L + F patients increased the VAS > or = 3 points. CONCLUSIONS: The initial course of L facilitated the effect of F probably by its effect on the colon flora. This sequence of flora-altering biologics + F may serve as model to replace chronic use of drugs.

Sindrome de intestino irritable: ¿Un trastorno funcional? / [Irritable bowel syndrome: a functional disorder?].

Irritable bowel syndrome is a highly prevalent condition responsible for almost one third of visits to the gastroenterologist and huge expenses for diagnosis, treatment and loss of working days. A unique pathophysiologic mechanism has not been elucidated yet and several possibilities have been proposed such as senso-perception and motor disturbances, the effect of stress and anxiety, serotonin receptor failures, activation of abnormal brain areas and pain modulation differences, among others. The absence of a biological marker has led the investigators to consider this syndrome as an exclusion diagnostic condition, once the organic diseases have been discarded The changes in gut microbiota have recently raised great interest among gastroenterologists. The study of the small intestinal bowel overgrowth syndrome, the effect of antibiotics upon the flora, the recognition of post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome and the action of probiotics, together with the effect of malabsortion of diet carbohydrates have brought some new light in our knowledge. The present update will focus on the published evidence about the subject, bearing in mind that the mechanisms elicited here are only suitable for a subgroup of patients.

[The Latin-American Consensus on Chronic Constipation]. / Consenso Latinoamericano de Estreñimiento Crónico.

The Latin-American Consensus on Chronic Constipation aimed to establish guidelines to improve the identification, diagnosis and treatment of this disorder in the region. Two coordinators and an honorary coordinator established the process and the topics to be discussed, based on a systematic review of the literature published in the previous 10 years, since 1995. Seventeen members participated with the support of their local gastroenterology societies. The members reviewed the different subjects based on the levels of evidence and grades of recommendation; the topics were then discussed in a plenary session. A written report was drafted and the coordinators prepared the final declarations to be submitted to a vote by all the members in October 2006. The consensus concluded that chronic constipation has an estimated prevalence of 5-21% in the region, with a female-to-male ratio of 3:1. Among individuals with constipation, 75% use some type of medication, with more than 50% using home remedies. A diagnosis based on Rome Criteria was recommended and diagnostic testing only in persons older than 50 years or with alarm symptoms. The use of barium enema as an initial investigation was recommended only in countries with a high prevalence of idiopathic megacolon or Chagas' disease. Recommendations on treatment included an increase in dietary fiber of up to 25-30 g/day (grade C). No evidence was found to recommend measures such as exercise, increased water intake, or frequent visits to the toilet. Fiber supplements such as Psyllium received a grade B and pharmacological treatments such as tegaserod and polyethylene glycol, both grade A. There was insufficient evidence to recommend lactulose, but the consensus did not disadvise its use when necessary. Complementary investigations such as colonic transit followed by anorectal manometry and defecography were only recommended to rule out colonic inertia and/or obstructive defecation in patients not responding to treatment. Biofeedback was recommended (grade B) for those with pelvic dyssynergia.

Consenso Latinoamericano de Estreñimiento Crónico / The Latin-American Consensus on Chronic Constipation aimed to establish guidelines to improve the identification, diagnosis and treatment of this disorder in the region. Two coordinators and an honorary coordinator established the process and the topics to be discussed, based on a systematic review

El Consenso Latinoamericano de Estreñimiento Crónico se realizó con el objeto de proveer guías para mejorar la identificación, el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de este trastorno en la región. Dos coordinadores, y uno honorario, establecieron las líneas de consenso, basado en una revisión sistemática de la literatura médica de los últimos 10 años a partir de 1995. Participaron 17 miembros con el aval de sus respectivas sociedades locales de gastroenterología. Éstos revisaron y presentaron los temas con sus niveles de evidencia y grados de recomendación para discutirlos en una reunión plenaria. Tras un informe final de los miembros, los coordinadores prepararon las declaraciones finales para someterlas a votación en octubre de 2006. El consenso concluyó que el estreñimiento crónico tiene una prevalencia estimada del 5-21% en la región, con una relación mujer:varón de 3:1. El 75% de los sujetos que lo presenta utiliza algún tipo de medicamentos y más del 50% usa medicamentos caseros. Se recomendó un diagnóstico basado en los Criterios de Roma y los estudios diagnósticos sólo en pacientes mayores de 50 años o con algún signo de alarma. El uso de enema de colon se recomendó como investigación inicial en países con elevada frecuencia de megacolon idiopático y/o enfermedad de Chagas. En cuanto al tratamiento, se recomendó incrementar la fibra en la dieta a 25-30 g/día (grado C) y no se encontraron evidencias para ciertas medidas, como el ejercicio, el aumento de la ingesta de agua o las visitas programadas al excusado. El Psyllium recibió recomendación grado B y tratamientos farmacológicos, como tegaserod y polietilenglicol grado A. No se encontraron suficientes evidencias para recomendar la administración de lactulosa, pero no se desaprobó su uso cuando fuera necesario. Los estudios complementarios, como el tránsito colónico seguido de manometría anorrectal y defecografía, sólo se recomendaron para descartar la inercia colónica y/o la obstrucción funcional en pacientes que no respondieran al tratamiento. La biorretroalimentación se recomendó (grado B) en la disinergia del suelo pélvico

The Latin-American Consensus on Chronic Constipation aimed to establish guidelines to improve the identification, diagnosis and treatment of this disorder in the region. Two coordinators and an honorary coordinator established the process and the topics to be discussed, based on a systematic review of the literature published in the previous 10 years, since 1995. Seventeen members participated with the support of their local gastroenterology societies. The members reviewed the different subjects based on the levels of evidence and grades of recommendation; the topics were then discussed in a plenary session. A written report was drafted and the coordinators prepared the final declarations to be submitted to a vote by all the members in October 2006. The consensus concluded that chronic constipation has an estimated prevalence of 5-21% in the region, with a female-to-male ratio of 3:1. Among individuals with constipation, 75% use some type of medication, with more than 50% using home remedies. A diagnosis based on Rome Criteria was recommended and diagnostic testing only in persons older than 50 years or with alarm symptoms. The use of barium enema as an initial investigation was recommended only in countries with a high prevalence of idiopathic megacolon or Chagas' disease. Recommendations on treatment included an increase in dietary fiber of up to 25-30 g/day (grade C). No evidence was found to recommend measures such as exercise, increased water intake, or frequent visits to the toilet. Fiber supplements such as Psyllium received a grade B and pharmacological treatments such as tegaserod and polyethylene glycol, both grade A. There was insufficient evidence to recommend lactulose, but the consensus did not disadvise its use when necessary. Complementary investigations such as colonic transit followed by anorectal manometry and defecography were only recommended to rule out colonic inertia and/or obstructive defecation in patients not responding to treatment. Biofeedback was recommended (grade B) for those with pelvic dyssynergia (AU)

[Breath hydrogen levels do not predict fiber intolerance in irritable bowel syndrome with constipation]. / El incremento del hidrógeno en el aire espirado no predice la intolerancia a la fibra en la dieta en el síndrome del intestino irritable con constipación. Estudio piloto.

BACKGROUND: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is characterized by the worsening of symptoms with a high fiber diet. This intolerance could be related to an increase in colonic bacterial fermentation. The hydrogen breath test (HBT) is a marker of the intestinal micro flora fermentative capacity. AIM: To assess if there is an association between hydrogen (H2) levels and clinical changes between diets with and without bran. PATIENTS AND METHODS: 10 women with predominantly constipated irritable bowel syndrome (Rome II criteria) received a lowfiber diet during one week. This phase was followed by a second 7 day period with the same diet but supplemented with 12 g of crude dietary fiber. At the end of both periods, patients completed a symptom scale (Lickert type) and performed a HBT. RESULTS: Comparing both periods with a different diet the median difference in the clinical scale score (-2.5) shows a tendency favorable to the diet without bran, p = 0.048. In the fiber period the median increase of 2 ppm in H2 values was not significant deferent. Neither was possible to establish an association between breath H2 and the clinical response to a fiber diet. CONCLUSIONS: In this pilot study we could not detect ary association between breath H2 levels and the clinical response to dietary fiber.

Encuesta piloto virtual a médicos argentinos (usuarios de la red intramed) sobre conocimientos, conductas diagnósticas y terapéuticas referidas a la dispepsia funcional / Virtual Pilot survey to Argentinian physicians (users from IntraMed), knowledge, diagnostic approach and therapeutic related to functional dyspepsia

La dispepsia funcional es una entidad muy frecuente en la práctica diaria tanto del gastroenterólogo como de médicos clínicos y aún de los que practican otras especialidades, pero continúa siendo muy polémica desde el punto de vista de su definición, clasificación, diagnóstico y su enfoque terapéutico. Para conocer el punto de vista y los conocimientos que los médicos argentinos tienen del tema hemos realizado una encuesta virtual. Objetivos: 1) Determinar creencias, criterios y conductas édicas diagnósticas y terapéuticas más frecuentes asociadas al cuadro clínico de dispepsia funcional. 2) Determinar (estimativamente) por los médicos que respondieron, la prevalencia de dispépticos en la consulta diaria y mensual. 3) Determinar (estimativamente) por los médicos que respondieron, la prevalencia de enfermedad orgánica dentro de los pacientes que consultaron por dispepsia funcional. Población y muestra: Médicos residentes en Argentina, usuarios de red virtual IntraMed (expuestos: n=12.849). Respondieron voluntariamente 622 médicos de las siguientes especialidades: generalistas, de familia, gastroenterólogos, erontólogos, cirujanos generales y “otras” (muestreo no probabilístico). Fueron excluidos 43 especialistas que respondieron por no constituir una especialidad que reciba este tipo de consultas con mayor frecuencia. Fueron eliminadas las respuestas de pediatras por ser de bajísima frecuencia (3 pediatras). Lugar y período de exposición a la encuesta: Buenos Aires, Red virtual IntraMed, desde enero de 2005 a enero de 2006, encuesta colgada on-line desde el 2 al 31 de mayo de 2005. Metodología: Invitación electrónica a participar luego de una breve difusión previa. Exhibición de la encuesta on-line durante mayo de 2005. Diseño: exploratorio, prospectivo, observacional, transversal, de cuantificación. Instrumento: Cuestionario que exploróentre médicos de diferentes especialidades de la Argentina: a) Dificultades y preferencias acerca de la definición...