Review article: the functional abdominal pain syndrome
1Department of Gastroenterology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Israel. amy@bgu.ac.il
Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics
|January 6, 2011
Summary
Functional abdominal pain syndrome (FAPS) is a chronic pain condition affecting daily life. Treatment focuses on reducing suffering and improving quality of life through a biopsychosocial approach.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pain Medicine
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Functional abdominal pain syndrome (FAPS) is a severe, debilitating disorder characterized by persistent abdominal pain and functional impairment.
- It impacts daily life significantly, requiring specific diagnostic criteria and management strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and current treatment modalities for FAPS.
- To provide insights into the unique mechanisms and therapeutic approaches for this condition.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted.
- Keywords included: functional abdominal pain, chronic abdominal pain, irritable bowel syndrome, and functional gastrointestinal disorders.
Main Results:
- FAPS prevalence is estimated between 0.5% and 1.7%, with a female predominance.
- Pathophysiology involves amplified central pain perception rather than peripheral stimulation.
- Treatment emphasizes a biopsychosocial model, aiming to reduce suffering and improve quality of life through combined therapies.
Conclusions:
- While specific research on FAPS and its treatments is limited, current strategies show promise.
- Effective management relies on a patient-physician partnership and integrated therapeutic approaches.
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