The Relationship of Enteric Microbial Infection and Functional Bowel Disorders

Acute bacterial gastroenteritis is the strongest risk factor identified to date for the subsequent development of postinfective irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical risk factors include prolonged acute illness and the absence of vomiting. A genetically determined susceptibility to inflammatory stimuli may also be a risk factor for irritable bowel syndrome. The underlying pathophysiology indicates increased intestinal permeability and low-grade inflammation, as well as altered motility and visceral sensitivity. The prognosis is similar to that of other forms of irritable bowel syndrome with over 50% of patients but the long-term complications are poorly understood.