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Recurrent abdominal pain in childhood
Fang Kuan Chiou1, Choon How How, Christina Ong
1Gastroenterology Service, Department of Paediatrics, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore.
Singapore Medical Journal
|April 30, 2013
Summary
Recurrent abdominal pain in children is often a functional gastrointestinal disorder. Management focuses on education, reassurance, and returning to normal activities, with psychological therapies for persistent cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Background:
- Recurrent abdominal pain is a common pediatric issue, posing diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- It is frequently linked to functional gastrointestinal disorders rather than organic pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the diagnostic approach to recurrent abdominal pain in children.
- To describe current therapeutic strategies, emphasizing non-pharmacological methods.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on comprehensive history and physical examination.
- Alarm symptoms (e.g., weight loss, bleeding) necessitate further investigation and specialist referral.
Main Results:
- Functional disorders are common; diagnosis is often clinical.
- Education, reassurance, and avoidance of triggers are primary treatments.
- Pharmacological therapy has limited evidence and should be time-limited.
Conclusions:
- The main goal of treatment is functional recovery and return to daily activities.
- Psychological interventions like cognitive behavior therapy are effective for refractory cases.
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