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Medical Author:

Robert Ferry Jr., MD

Robert Ferry Jr., MD

Robert Ferry Jr., MD, is a U.S. board-certified Pediatric Endocrinologist. After taking his baccalaureate degree from Yale College, receiving his doctoral degree and residency training in pediatrics at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA), he completed fellowship training in pediatric endocrinology at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Exams and Tests

Abdominal pain in children has several potential causes, affecting multiple organ systems, each requiring a unique set of diagnostic tests. The doctor will obtain a thorough history and examine the child, which likely will include a rectal exam to evaluate the presence of blood. From this information the doctor may order additional tests.

• Blood probably will be drawn and sent to a laboratory for blood cell counts (CBC), liver function tests, blood cultures, amylase/lipase levels, and/or lead level. A urine sample may be obtained and sent for urinalysis and culture.
  
  
• A stool sample may be obtained to check for blood, bacteria, or parasites.
  
  
• Imaging studies (X-rays and related studies) may be taken to evaluate the abdomen. Other tests may include:
  
  
  • Ultrasound of the abdomen/testicles
    
    
  • CT scan of the abdomen
  
  
• Special tests may be ordered based on the child's condition, including barium enema or swallow, anal manometry, or a pelvic exam.
  
  
• A specialist such as a gastroenterologist or a general or a pediatric surgeon may be consulted.