The alteration of enterochromaffin cell, mast cell, and lamina propria T lymphocyte numbers in irritable bowel syndrome and its relationship with psychological factors.

Background/aims: Psychological factors and subtle histopathological changes have been implicated in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The aims of the present study were to investigate whether the numbers of enterochromaffin (EC) cells, mast cells, and lamina propria T lymphocytes are altered in IBS, and evaluate the relationship of such alterations with psychological factors.

Methods: Forty-two consecutive IBS patients (M : F = 17:25, mean age 48 years) fulfilling the Rome III criteria and twelve asymptomatic healthy controls underwent rectal biopsy.