AIM:To elucidate the differences in somatic,psycho-logical and biochemical pattern between the subtypes of irritable bowel syndrome(IBS).METHODS:Eighty IBS patients,30 diarrhoea pre-dominant(D-IBS),16 constipation predominant(C-IBS)and 34 alternating IBS(A-IBS)underwent physi-otherapeutic examinations for dysfunctions in body movements and awareness and were compared to an apparently healthy control group(AHC).All groups answered questionnaires for gastrointestinal and psycho-logical symptoms.Biochemical variables were analysed in blood.RESULTS:The D-IBS group showed less body awareness,less psychological symptoms,a more normal sense of coherence and psychosocial rating as well as higher C-peptide values.C-IBS had a higher degree of body dysfunction and psychological symptoms,as well as the lowest sense of coherence compared to controls and D-IBS.They also demonstrated the most elevated prolactin levels.A-IBS had the lowest degree of body disturbance,deteriorated quality of life and affected biochemical pattern.All subtypes had higher pain scores compared to controls.In addition they all had significantly increased triglycerides and elevated morning cortisol levels,however,without statistical significance compared with the controls.CONCLUSION:IBS subtypes showed different profiles in body awareness,somatic and psychological symptoms and in biochemicaI variables.D-IBS differed compared to the other groups by Iowered body awareness,less psychological symptoms and a higher sense of coherence and elevated C-Deptide values.C-IBS and A-IBS subtypes suffered more from depression and anxiety,associated with a lower quality of life.These differences may be important and will be taken into account in our treatment of these patients.