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Recurrent abdominal pain in childhood
The Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
|December 1, 1978
Summary
Recurrent abdominal pain in children often signals family disorder, not physical illness. Family assessment is crucial for effective management of this common childhood issue.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Family Medicine
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) is a common pediatric complaint presenting diagnostic challenges.
- Organic causes for RAP are infrequent in children presenting in general practice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the underlying factors contributing to recurrent abdominal pain in children.
- To assess the role of family dynamics and history in childhood RAP.
Main Methods:
- A seven-year observational study of 162 children (aged 3-15) with RAP in general practice.
- Comparison of children with RAP to a control group, including family history and consultations.
Main Results:
- Only 5% of children had identifiable organic causes for their pain.
- Families of children with RAP showed higher rates of medical consultations, abdominal issues, psychiatric referrals, and marital problems.
- Maternal-child relationships in affected families were often unstable.
Conclusions:
- Childhood recurrent abdominal pain frequently reflects underlying family disorder.
- Comprehensive family assessment should guide the management of pediatric RAP.