Genetic and psychological prerequisites for development of refractory variant of irritable bowel syndrome

Abstract

Purpose of the study. Тo determine predictors of refractory course of irritable bowel syndrome with consideration for genetic markers and psychological peculiarities of patients. Materials and methods. 101 patients with irritable bowel syndrome (73 with refractory form of irritable bowel syndrome, 28 with non-refractory form of the same) have been examined. We analyzed the triggers of the disease, assessed the levels of distress, depression, anxiety, somatization, and aggression, and we have determined polymorphic variants of genes COMT Val158Met, TLR9 G2848A, TLR9 T-1237C. Results. Refractory variant of irritable bowel syndrome is associated with the onset at an earlier age, social and psychological triggers, extraintestinal manifestations and non-gastroenterological symptoms, high levels of distress, depression, anxiety, somatization, and aggression. We have revealed that refractoriness and some clinical forms of irritable bowel syndrome are associated with polymorphic variants of certain genes. Conclusion. Refractory variant of irritable bowel syndrome is associated with certain genetic and psychological factors.