Most children who have recurrent abdominal pain have no underlying organic pathology. There may be low grade fever, weight loss, rash and arthralgia. When there is no organic cause it is termed functional abdominal pain, and although the pain is as disrupting and uncomfortable as organic pain, it is more difficult to evaluate and manage compared with the organic type. When no cause is identified, the family fears a more serious prognosis and asks for more sophisticated tests. A detailed history, social evaluation and physical examination might suffice.
Treatment consists of reassurance that there is no serious underlying cause.
Medications are unhelpful, but biofeedback and relaxation techniques might help. Successful management depends on close follow-up and establishing a good relationship with the patient and family.