[Depression in patients of irritable bowel syndrome].

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a psychosomatic disorder which onset and course is affected by psychological factors. It is also said that IBS symptoms and psychiatric symptoms are strongly related. In some reports, 29% of IBS patients consulting doctors were also diagnosed with major depression. There are also records that the consolidation of depression, panic disorder, and neurosis contributes to poor outcomes in serious cases of IBS. In this report, we have indicated the diagnosis and treatment of depression in primary care. For diagnosis, detailed medical interviews and use of psychological tests such as SDS or SRQ-D are recommended. Some types of anti-depressants are also effective for IBS symptoms as well as psychiatric problems. We suggest that treatment of psychological factors should also be considered when dealing with IBS.