Multiple Sclerosis Related Bowel Dysfunction: Pathophysiology, Clinical Manifestation and Management

Abstract

Bowel dysfunction amongst multiple sclerosis (MS) patients often manifests as faecal incontinence (FI), constipation, or a combination of the two. Its pathophysiology is poorly understood and can be multifactorial. Anorectal physiology provides an objective assessment of lower bowel functions and is increasingly being used in clinical practice. Due to the varied and fluctuant nature of the symptoms, these patients can be a management challenge. This review aims to give an overview of the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations and the principles of management of multiple sclerosis patients with bowel dysfunction.