Recurrent abdominal pain in children: forerunner to adult irritable bowel syndrome?
OBJECTIVE
Review the etiology and pathophysiology of recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) and its potential role as a precursor to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults.


CONCLUSIONS
Physiological mechanisms not easily identifiable as an organic cause may underlie symptoms in RAP patients. They may be triggered by psychosocial factors that result in greater functional disability, more clinic visits, and lower academic and social competence. Of these children, 25% will experience similar symptoms as adults; many will be diagnosed with IBS.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses can provide early and efficient management of these children's care if they view the issues of abdominal pain/discomfort from a broader focus that includes the context of the child's experiences.
Jarrett
Monica
M
Department of Biobehavioral Nursing and Health Systems, University of Washington, Seattle, USA. jarrett@u.washington.edu
Heitkemper
Margaret
M
Czyzewski
Danita I
DI
Shulman
Robert
R
D015746:Abdominal Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003109:Colonic Diseases, Functional / Q000209:etiology*; D004032:Diet / Q000009:adverse effects; D018450:Disease Progression; D005769:Gastrointestinal Motility; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D010371:Pediatric Nursing / Q000379:methods; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000150:complications