The Potential Use of Artificial Intelligence in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Management

Abstract

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has a global prevalence of around 4.1% and is associated with a low quality of life and increased healthcare costs. Current guidelines recommend that IBS is diagnosed using the symptom-based Rome IV criteria. Despite this, when patients seek medical attention, they are usually over-investigated. This issue might be resolved by novel technologies in medicine, such as the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this context, this paper aims to review AI applications in IBS. AI in colonoscopy proved to be useful in organic lesion detection and diagnosis and in objectively assessing the quality of the procedure. Only a recently published study talked about the potential of AI-colonoscopy in IBS. AI was also used to study biofilm characteristics in the large bowel and establish a potential relationship with IBS. Moreover, an AI algorithm was developed in order to correlate specific bowel sounds with IBS. In addition to that, AI-based smartphone applications have been developed to facilitate the monitoring of IBS symptoms. From a therapeutic standpoint, an AI system was created to recommend specific diets based on an individual’s microbiota. In conclusion, future IBS diagnosis and treatment may benefit from AI.

The Neutrophil-to-Albumin Ratio (NAR): A Novel Index in Relation to Clinical Symptoms, Quality of Life, and Psychological Status in Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS-D)

“…However, these diagnostic criteria lack objectivity and may lead to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis. 23,24 Using non-invasive and objective biomarkers for managing IBS patients offers several advantages. [25][26][27][28] These biomarkers do not cause additional pain or discomfort, unlike invasive tests such as colonoscopy or biopsies.…”

“…15 This well-established assessment tool allows for a thorough evaluation of depressive symptoms. The distribution of PHQ-9 scores was categorized into 5 levels: Minimal (0-4), Mild (5-9), Moderate (10)(11)(12)(13)(14), Moderately severe (15)(16)(17)(18)(19), Severe (20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25)(26)(27). In our follow-up study, a decline in PHQ-9 distribution levels was considered as "improvement in PHQ-9".…”

Transformative Potential of AI in Healthcare: Definitions, Applications, and Navigating the Ethical Landscape and Public Perspectives

“…AI has proven useful in colonoscopy by detecting organic lesions, diagnosing them, and objectively evaluating the procedure's quality. Additionally, AI has been used to study biofilm characteristics in the large bowel and establish a potential correlation with IBS [70]. Furthermore, an AI algorithm has been developed to analyze specific bowel sounds associated with IBS.…”