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- Title
PEDIATRIC ABDOMINAL PUZZLES: COMMON CAUSES OF ABDOMINAL PAIN IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS.
- Authors
Narița, Rafael-Ioan; Meliț, Lorena-Elena; Mărginean, Cristina Oana
- Abstract
Background: Abdominal pain is a commonly encountered issue in children and adolescents, often posing a diagnostic challenge due to the diverse range of potential underlying causes. Given its high prevalence, understanding these causes is essential for prompt diagnosis and appropriate management. Objective: The purpose of this study is to identify the primary etiologies of abdominal pain in the pediatric population, while stratifying them by age groups and the affected organ system. Additionally, the study aims to discern critical warning signs that may endanger the child's well-being. Material and methods: In this descriptive retrospective study, the observation records of 117 children admitted to the County Emergency Clinical Hospital of Târgu Mureş, on the pediatric ward, complaining of abdominal pain were evaluated. Demographic data, medical history, laboratory and paraclinical test results were collected and processed. Results: We categorized the participants into five age groups: newborns, <2 years, 2-5 years, 5-14 years, and 14-18 years. Among these, the 5-14 age group exhibited the highest prevalence of abdominal pain (47.01%, n=55). Females constituted the majority in our study population, including 61.54% (n=72) of the participants. Gastrointestinal etiologies emerged as the predominant cause of abdominal pain (71.79%, n=84), with gastritis being the most prevalent gastrointestinal condition observed (31%, n=26), followed by gastroenteritis (13%, n=11) and constipation (10%, n=8). Other etiologies for the pain that were observed were, in order of frequency: hepatobiliary and pancreatic (11.11%, n=13), genitourinary (5.98%, n=7), hematological, respiratory, and toxic causes. Conclusions: The study's findings underscored a notable incidence of abdominal pain in the 5-14 age bracket, primarily attributed to gastrointestinal disorders, with gastritis being particularly prominent. Additionally, the study revealed a predominance of female participants. Noteworthy was the presence of gastroenteritis and constipation as significant contributors to abdominal discomfort in pediatric patients. These insights emphasize the importance of thorough evaluation and management of abdominal pain in this demographic.
- Subjects
ROMANIA; ABDOMINAL pain in children; ABDOMINAL pain; CONFERENCES &; conventions; PEDIATRICS
- Publication
Acta Marisiensis. Seria Medica, 2024, Vol 70, p37
- ISSN
2668-7755
- Publication type
Article