BACKGROUND/AIMS: PI-IBS is a common disorder wherein symptoms of IBS begin after acute gastroenteritis. The aims were to assess the relationship of IBS and preceding episodes of gastroenteritis and explore the risk factors.

METHODOLOGY

Electronic databases (1985-2010) were searched to retrieve trials. Outcome measures were incidence of PI-IBS. Review 4.3.1 was used for the statistical analysis and POR and 95% CI as summary statistics were calculated.

RESULTS

Ten studies were assessed for incidence of PI-IBS at last study assessment (POR=6.03; 95% CI 3.58 to 10.13). In subgroup analysis, six studies each were assessed for incidence of PI-IBS at 3 months (POR=8.47; 95% CI 4.85 to 14.76), 6 months (POR=4.58; 95% CI 2.94 to 7.14) and 12 months (POR=6.19; 95% CI 2.82 to 13.58). Four studies were assessed for incidence of PI-IBS at 24-36 months (POR=4.05; 95% CI 3.13 to 5.24).

CONCLUSIONS

The odds of developing IBS are increased after acute gastrointestinal infection. There are many risk factors for the development of PI-IBS including female gender, younger age, severity of the initial gastrointestinal insult, duration of the enteritis and adverse psychological factors.