Chronic abdominal pain in children and adolescents: general aspects

Abstract

Objective: To review the current scientific literature on Chronic Abdominal Pain (CAP) in children and adolescents, with focus on the functional etiology. Bibliography review: CAP is highly prevalent in the general pediatric population. CAP is a descriptive term that includes organic and functional etiology for abdominal pain. Most CAP cases are functional conditions and have been defined as a disorder of the brain-gut axis. The ROME IV Committee has classified the Functional abdominal pain disorders as Functional Dyspepsia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Abdominal Migraine and Functional Abdominal Pain Not Otherwise Specified. The treatment includes education, modification of stress factors, dietary interventions and when necessary, pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy. Final considerations: The CAP represents a challenge in pediatrics. CAP has a high prevalence and may interferes with the patient's daily life. A biopsychosocial approach is recommended for a favorable outcome. Further studies are necessary for a better understanding and management of CAP in the pediatric population.