Investigations for Chronic Abdominal Pain in Children

• Dr. M.A. Kambal — Consultant in Pediatrics, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Endoscopy and Nutrition at Specialized Medical Center Hospital, Riyadh, and an Adjunct Assistant Professor at Alfaisal University

Paediatrics

Investigations should be guided by the child's history, physical examination, and clinical findings. Selected tests may include a complete blood count, liver function tests, ESR, CRP, and celiac screening with total IgA and tissue transglutaminase IgA. These tests help identify anemia, inflammation, liver disease, and possible celiac disease. Abdominal X-rays should be reserved for specific clinical indications rather than used routinely.