The frequency of microscopic and focal active colitis in patients with irritable bowel syndrome
2011

Microscopic and Focal Active Colitis in IBS Patients

Sample size: 378 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ozdil Kamil, Sahin Abdurrahman, Calhan Turan, Kahraman Resul, Nigdelioglu Adil, Akyuz Umit, Sokmen Hacı M

Primary Institution: Umraniye Training and Research Hospital

Hypothesis

What is the frequency of microscopic colitis and focal active colitis in patients with irritable bowel syndrome?

Conclusion

Microscopic colitis is more common in older women with diarrhea-predominant IBS, and focal active colitis is significantly more prevalent in IBS patients compared to controls.

Supporting Evidence

  • The prevalence of microscopic colitis in IBS patients was found to be 3.09%.
  • Focal active colitis was found in 6.6% of IBS patients.
  • Lymphocytic colitis was present in 3.1% of IBS patients and 0% of controls.

Takeaway

This study found that some people with irritable bowel syndrome might have a hidden problem called microscopic colitis, especially if they are older women who have diarrhea.

Methodology

378 patients were recruited, with 226 diagnosed with IBS and 152 control patients; biopsies were taken during colonoscopy to assess for colitis.

Potential Biases

Potential selection bias due to the asymptomatic nature of control patients.

Limitations

The study had differences in age and gender between the IBS and control groups.

Participant Demographics

378 patients aged 16-84, with 51.1% female overall; 55.3% female in the IBS group.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.045

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-230X-11-96

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