What is the difference between PDS and IBD?
The difference between irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) lies in the cause and nature of the condition. PDS is a functional bowel disease without visible inflammation or damage to the intestines, while IBD is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can cause permanent damage to the intestinal wall.
What is PDS?
Irritable bowel syndrome (PDS) is a functional disorder of the intestines. This means that there are no visible abnormalities in the intestinal wall, but bowel function is disturbed. PDS often causes symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea and/or constipation.
PDS is a common condition and is usually influenced by diet, stress and intestinal sensitivity. Although the symptoms can be bothersome, PDS does not lead to permanent damage to the intestines, nor does it increase the risk of more serious bowel diseases.
Characteristics of PDS
- No inflammation or visible damage to the intestines
- Symptoms vary greatly from person to person and can have periods of improvement and worsening
- Common symptoms include abdominal pain, cramps, bloating, diarrhoea or constipation
- Stress and diet can worsen symptoms
What is IBD?
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an umbrella term for chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, in which permanent damage to intestinal tissue can occur. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
IBD involves chronic inflammation of the intestinal wall, which can lead to pain, bleeding, weight loss and severe bowel problems. The cause of IBD is not yet fully known, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic factors, a dysregulated immune system and environmental factors.
Characteristics of IBD
- Chronic inflammation in the intestines, visible on scans or via intestinal examination
- Damage to the intestinal wall, which can lead to scarring and strictures
- Complaints such as severe abdominal pain, blood in stools, diarrhoea, weight loss and fatigue
- Can lead to complications such as bowel strictures, abscesses and increased risk of colon cancer
What are the main differences between PDS and IBD?
Although PDS and IBD have some overlapping symptoms, there are some distinct differences:
| Feature | PDS | IBD |
| Inflammation in the intestines | No | Yes |
| Damage to the intestinal wall | No | Yes |
| Symptoms | Abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea or constipation | Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, blood in stools, weight loss |
| Severity of the condition | Not harmful, but annoying | Can cause serious complications |
| Cause | Functional, no structural anomalies | Chronic inflammation of the intestines |
| Treatment | Nutrition, stress management, medication against symptoms | Anti-inflammatory drugs, sometimes surgery |
How is the difference between PDS and IBD determined?
Because PDS and IBD have some overlapping symptoms, a medical examination is needed to make the correct diagnosis. A doctor can perform several tests, such as:
- Blood tests: Checking for inflammation levels and anaemia.
- Fecal examination: Testing for calprotectin, an inflammatory marker that is elevated in IBD.
- Coloscopy: A keyhole examination of the intestines to detect inflammation or damage.
- Food diary and elimination diet: In PDS, diet can play an important role in the development of symptoms.
With elevated calprotectin levels, there is a good chance of having an inflammatory disease such as IBD. In PDS, these values remain normal.
Calprotectine Test
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