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[Chronic abdominal pain--internistic-psychosomatic aspects].
1Medizinische Klinik I, Klinikum Saarbrücken. whaeuser@klinikum-saarbruecken.de
MMW Fortschritte Der Medizin
|September 11, 2004
Summary
Chronic abdominal pain, lasting three months, often stems from functional gastrointestinal disorders. Diagnosis involves structured history, physical exam, and basic tests for accurate classification and management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pain Medicine
Context:
- Chronic abdominal pain affects a significant patient population.
- Understanding the pathophysiology is crucial for effective management.
Purpose:
- To outline the definition and pathophysiological categories of chronic abdominal pain.
- To highlight the prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders as a cause.
- To describe the diagnostic approach for classifying chronic abdominal pain.
Summary:
- Chronic abdominal pain is defined by persistence over three months.
- Pathophysiological classifications include nociceptive/neuropathic functional pain syndrome, mental disorders, and mixed forms.
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome, account for 50% of cases.
- Diagnosis relies on structured pain history, physical examination, and investigations like laboratory tests, ultrasonography, and endoscopy.
Impact:
- Facilitates accurate diagnosis and classification of chronic abdominal pain.
- Guides clinicians in identifying functional gastrointestinal disorders as a primary cause.
- Improves patient management through a structured diagnostic pathway.