[Recurrent abdominal pain. A prospective study of 68 children].

We followed 68 children with recurrent abdominal pain in a prospective study including a standard investigation programme and abdominal ultrasound. We found an organic disease which explained the pain in eight patients (12%). Most children with recurrent abdominal pain can be dealt with by a general practitioner. In our opinion, further investigation, including abdominal ultrasound should only be carried out in the event of specific suspicion of organic disease. At follow-up 16-34 months later, 55 children (85%) had improved or were free of pain. We discuss the differential diagnoses and propose a plan of investigation for these children.