A comparative reappraisal of the Rome II and Rome III diagnostic criteria: are we getting closer to the ???true??? prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome?

Abstract

In the present retrospective study, the prevalence rate for irritable bowel syndrome in our population is significantly higher by Rome III compared with Rome II. Rome III may more closely reflect the socioeconomic burden of irritable bowel syndrome compared with the overly strict Rome II. Prospective comparative studies should be conducted to confirm these results.