Enteric Nervous System: Disorders

Disorders of the enteric nervous system (ENS) are manifested as dysmotility and altered secretory function, which in turn lead to symptoms of dysphagia, diarrhea or constipation, nausea, discomfort, and pain. Disorders arise under a variety of circumstances. Some are specific to the ENS, others are enteric manifestation of systemic disease. Here we discuss the basis of defects in development leading to congenital aganglionosis, ENS pathologies arising during inflammation, and functional changes in enteric reflexes and brain-gut interactions that are manifested as irritable bowel syndrome.