Chronic constipation in adults: Contemporary perspectives and clinical challenges. 1: Epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology and investigation

S. Mark Scott, Magnus Simrén, Adam D. Farmer, Philip G. Dinning, Emma V. Carrington, Marc A. Benninga, Rebecca E. Burgell, Eirini Dimidi, Asma Fikree, Alexander C. Ford, Mark Fox, Caroline L. Hoad, Charles H. Knowles, Klaus Krogh, Karen Nugent, Jose Maria Remes-Troche, Kevin Whelan, Maura Corsetti

Research output: Contribution to journalReview ArticleResearchpeer-review

32 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Chronic constipation is a prevalent disorder that affects patients' quality of life and consumes resources in healthcare systems worldwide. In clinical practice, it is still considered a challenge as clinicians frequently are unsure as to which treatments to use and when. Over a decade ago, a Neurogastroenterology & Motility journal supplement devoted to the investigation and management of constipation was published (2009; 21 (Suppl.2)). This included seven articles, disseminating all themes covered during a preceding 2-day meeting held in London, entitled “Current perspectives in chronic constipation: a scientific and clinical symposium.” In October 2018, the 3rd London Masterclass, entitled “Contemporary management of constipation” was held, again over 2 days. All faculty members were invited to author two new review articles, which represent a collective synthesis of talks presented and discussions held during this meeting. PURPOSE: This article represents the first of these reviews, addressing epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical associations, pathophysiology, and investigation. Clearly, not all aspects of the condition can be covered in adequate detail; hence, there is a focus on particular “hot topics” and themes that are of contemporary interest. The second review addresses management of chronic constipation, covering behavioral, conservative, medical, and surgical therapies.

Original languageEnglish
Article numbere14050
Number of pages21
JournalNeurogastroenterology & Motility
Volume33
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jun 2021

Keywords

  • chronic constipation
  • diagnosis
  • epidemiology
  • IBS-C
  • investigation
  • pathophysiology

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