BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that 10 percent of all colonoscopies in the U.S. are performed for evaluation of IBS symptoms. Irritable bowel syndrome affects 15 percent of the population and is a chronic disorder characterized by recurrent abdominal pain and altered bowel habits.

IMPACT:The study results suggest that the role of colonoscopy for irritable bowel syndrome patients may be limited. Authors note that definitive guidelines to diagnose IBS don't include colonoscopy and previous studies have shown a limited diagnostic value of colonoscopy with IBS for patients under age 50. Many doctors believed however, that a normal result may reassure the patient, which may not be the case according to this new UCLA study. Authors say the next step is a clinical trial to confirm study findings.

'"/>

Contact: Rachel Champeau
rchampeau@mednet.ucla.edu
310-794-0777
University of California - Los Angeles
29-Nov-2005