UKMLA Revision
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Gastroenterology1 UKMLA question

Irritable bowel syndrome — UKMLA Revision Notes

Irritable bowel syndrome is an important clinical condition in Gastroenterology that is tested in the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test (AKT). Medical students and doctors preparing for the UKMLA or PLAB 1 must understand the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, investigations, and evidence-based management of Irritable bowel syndrome as outlined in current NICE guidelines.

Key Facts

  • Irritable bowel syndrome is a key condition on the GMC UKMLA Content Map
  • Commonly tested in the Gastroenterology section of the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test
  • Understand the pathophysiology, clinical features, investigations, and management
  • NICE guidelines provide the evidence base for management decisions
  • Consider differential diagnoses and red flag symptoms in clinical scenarios

Investigations

  • FBC, U&E, LFTs, CRP
  • Endoscopy (OGD/colonoscopy)
  • CT abdomen/pelvis
  • Stool cultures
  • Faecal calprotectin
  • Abdominal USS

Management

  • Dietary modification
  • PPI/H2 antagonist as indicated
  • Treat underlying cause (H. pylori eradication, IBD therapy)
  • Nutritional support
  • Gastroenterology follow-up
  • Endoscopic surveillance if required

Practice 1+ Irritable bowel syndrome Questions

Test your knowledge with SBA questions on Irritable bowel syndrome and all 430 UKMLA Content Map conditions. Instant feedback, NICE guideline explanations, and spaced repetition included.