Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a frequent functional disorder of gastrointestinal tract. Its high incidence represents an important socioeconomic concern. The diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome is indirect and requires exclusion of an organic lesion within as well as outside the gastrointestinal tract. No algorithms--so called treatment guidelines--are available for pharmacological or non-pharmacological treatment of the irritable bowel syndrome. Long-term and comprehensive care of patients with functional diseases is an important component of the management of patients with irritable bowel syndrome.