Mucosal Inflammation and Visceral Hypersensitivity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Mucosal inflammation and visceral hypersensitivity are considered to be closely related factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of irritable bowel syndrome. Mucosal inflammation can be induced by factors such as diet, food allergies, psychological stress, changes in intestinal permeability, and alterations of the intestinal flora. Visceral hypersensitivity results from aberrant activation of peripheral nerves. These events, which may also be associated with an increase in the abundance and/or activation of mast cells, are considered to be the major causes of irritable bowel syndrome.