This document summarizes research on the diagnosis and treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It begins by defining IBS and reviewing its prevalence in Italy. It then discusses the diagnostic criteria for IBS, emphasizing the importance of a symptom-based positive diagnosis. Various IBS subtypes and comorbidities are also outlined. Regarding treatment, the document examines dietary approaches including low FODMAP diets, the use of probiotics and antibiotics, and the importance of the patient-physician relationship. It stresses the multifactorial nature of IBS and need for multidimensional diagnosis and treatment.