Comparison of Symptoms, Healthcare Utilization, and Treatment in Diagnosed and Undiagnosed Individuals With Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome

OBJECTIVES: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel disorder characterized by symptoms including abdominal pain and altered bowel function. Up to 75% of individuals with IBS may be undiagnosed. The aim of this study was to characterize symptoms, healthcare utilization, and treatments in populations with both diagnosed and undiagnosed IBS. METHODS: An online survey was conducted to compare gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, healthcare visits, well-being, symptom management, and treatment satisfaction in individuals with and without medically diagnosed IBS (Rome III criteria). Symptom severity, disruptiveness, and treatment satisfaction were rated using a 7-point scale. Adjustments to daily life were determined by predefined survey responses. RESULTS: A total of 1,924 individuals with a history of GI symptoms were eligible and completed the survey. Of these, 1,094 individuals (56.9%) met the criteria for IBS; 830 individuals (43.1%) had no medical diagnosis of IBS despite meeting diagnostic criteria. Most participants received a diagnosis from either gastroenterologists (45%) or primary care physicians (42%). A greater percentage of diagnosed patients had severe GI symptoms (score ≥6) vs. undiagnosed individuals (16% vs. 8%, respectively; P<0.05); diagnosed patients were more likely to report that GI symptoms adversely affected their quality of life. Approximately 40% of participants received IBS-related treatment from primary care physicians; 26% and 43% of diagnosed and undiagnosed individuals, respectively, were not receiving treatment for GI symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: Many individuals with IBS-related symptoms have not been medically diagnosed with IBS. IBS-related symptoms impact quality of life, yet more than one-third of individuals are not receiving treatment for IBS.