Am J Gastroenterol. 2023 Apr 11. doi: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000002280. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder of gut-brain interaction, characterized by symptoms of abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. It often co-occurs with extra-intestinal somatic and psychological symptoms. However, the nature of the inter-relationships among these symptoms is unclear. Although prior studies have noted age differences in IBS prevalence and specific symptom severity, it remains unknown whether specific symptoms and symptom relationships may differ by age.
METHODS: Symptom data were collected in 355 adults with IBS (mean age 41.4 years, 86.2% female). Network analysis was used to examine the inter-relationships among 28 symptoms and to identify the core symptoms driving the symptom structure between young (≤ 45 years) versus older (> 45 years) adults with IBS. We evaluated three network properties between the two age groups: network structure, edge (connection) strength, and global strength.
RESULTS: In both age groups, fatigue was the top core symptom. Anxiety was a second core symptom in the younger but not the older age group. Intestinal gas and/or bloating symptoms also exerted considerable influences in both age groups. The overall symptom structure and connectivity were found to be similar regardless of age.
CONCLUSION: Network analysis suggests fatigue is a critical target for symptom management in adults with IBS, regardless of age. Comorbid anxiety is likely an important treatment focus for young adults with IBS. Rome V Criteria update could consider the importance of intestinal gas and bloating symptoms. Additional replication with larger diverse IBS cohorts is warranted to verify our results.
PMID:37040543 | DOI:10.14309/ajg.0000000000002280
