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Recurrent abdominal pain in children: the utility of upper endoscopy and histopathology

N Ukarapol1, N Lertprasertsuk, L Wongsawasdi

  • 1Department of Paediatrics, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand. nukarapo@mail.med.cmu.ac.th

Singapore Medical Journal
|March 19, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Upper endoscopy with biopsy is a valuable tool for diagnosing recurrent abdominal pain in children. Helicobacter pylori gastritis was the most common organic cause identified, with antral nodularity as a key endoscopic finding.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Diagnostic Endoscopy

Background:

  • Recurrent abdominal pain is a common pediatric complaint.
  • Identifying organic causes is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the diagnostic utility of upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy.
  • To identify common organic causes of clinically significant recurrent abdominal pain in children.

Main Methods:

  • Prospective study of 38 children with severe recurrent upper abdominal pain.
  • Inclusion criteria: >= 3 episodes impairing activity, requiring medical attention.
  • All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsy after initial assessment.

Main Results:

  • Organic causes identified in 44.7% of cases.
  • Helicobacter pylori gastritis was the most frequent diagnosis (28.9%).
  • Antral nodularity showed significant association with H. pylori infection (sensitivity 63.4%, specificity 85.2%).

Conclusions:

  • Upper endoscopy with biopsy is effective in diagnosing pediatric recurrent abdominal pain.
  • Helicobacter pylori infection is a prevalent cause in this population.
  • Specific therapies led to improvement in all patients.
Abstract

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