CURRENT PSYCHOSOMATIC APPROACHES TO PATHO GENESIS AND THERAPY OF IRRITABLE-BOWEL-SYNDROME [IBS]

Epidemiological studies indicate that irritable bowel syndrome represe nts the most frequent somatoforme disorder. Current pathogenetic conce pts as well as newer results in pathophysiology, neurobiology and psyc hoendocrinology are described. As an example of the ''brain-gut-link'' , the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) is discussed. The positive results of psychotherapeutic intervention studies are described in more detai l. An intensified cooperation between the gastroenterologist and the p sychotherapist is recommended.