Disease-specific outcomes assessment for irritable bowel syndrome.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder that results in many physician visits and health care costs. Because IBS is so common, patients presenting with abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea must be evaluated as cost-effectively as possible. Little data exist to guide the clinician on how to best use endoscopy in IBS. By appropriately recognizing the cardinal symptoms of IBS, investigation can be minimized.