PEDIATRICS Vol. 115 No. 3 March 2005, pp. 812-815 (doi:10.1542/peds.2004-2497)

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CLINICAL REPORT

Chronic Abdominal Pain in Children

Children and adolescents with chronic abdominal pain pose unique challenges to their caregivers. Affected children and their families experience distress and anxiety that can interfere with their ability to perform regular daily activities. Although chronic abdominal pain in children is usually attributable to a functional disorder rather than organic disease, numerous misconceptions, insufficient knowledge among health care professionals, and inadequate application of knowledge may contribute to a lack of effective management. This clinical report accompanies a technical report (see page e370 in this issue) on childhood chronic abdominal pain and provides guidance for the clinician in the evaluation and treatment of children with chronic abdominal pain. The recommendations are based on the evidence reviewed in the technical report and on consensus achieved among subcommittee members.

Key Words: abdominal pain • irritable bowel syndrome • functional bowel disorders

Abbreviations: ENS, enteric nervous system