Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis and Management of Functional Abdominal Pain (FAP) and Related Disorders in Children

Author(s): Bhaswati Acharyya, Sanjeev Joshi, Sanjay Wazir, A.G. Karthikeyan, Vyankatesh M. Chavan, I. Shrikanth Rao, Chaitanya Balloji, Neha, Krishna Chaitanya Veligandla, Rahul Rathod, Bhavesh Kotak, Aditi Upadhayay, Monjori Mitra*

Functional Abdominal Pain (FAP) related to Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) pose a common yet underdiagnosed challenge in paediatric healthcare, which can exert a detrimental toll on children's mental well-being. Unfortunately, these disorders often go unrecognized, leading to a lack of appropriate diagnostic testing and suboptimal management and follow-up. Expert consultations and existing evidence were utilised to formulate consensus guidelines for the holistic management of paediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders. FGIDs warrant significant attention in the medical community due to their prevalence and profound impact on the quality of life of the children. Diagnosis, investigation, management, and ongoing monitoring are critical aspects of addressing FGIDs effectively. By nurturing a strong patient-physician relationship, considering a range of biological and psychosocial interventions, parental counselling, physicians can offer a more holistic approach to managing FGIDs in paediatric patients. This consensus strategy on diagnosis and management of FAP can help alleviate symptoms, improve outcomes, and ultimately enhance the overall well-being of affected children.