Sensitivity Testing in Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Rectal Capsaicin Stimulations: Role of TRPV1 Upregulation and Sensitization in Visceral Hypersensitivity?

Abstract

IBS patients with VH to rectal distension reveal increased pain perception to rectal application of capsaicin, as well as an increased anxiety response. No evidence for TRPV1 upregulation could be demonstrated. As both VH and anxiety are independently associated with increased pain perception to rectal capsaicin application, our data suggest that both peripheral and central factors are involved, with increased receptor sensitivity as a speculative possibility.