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Recurrent abdominal pain — school avoidance / functional

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Teaching point — how the wording changes the answer

Abdominal pain that occurs only on school days and resolves when off school, in an otherwise well child, is functional / school-related. Address psychosocial factors (family interview) rather than invasive investigation.

Q134 Child, morning abdominal pain, well at school, normal routine. Initial investigation?
Key clue Well at school
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Abdominal ultrasound (initial) — or reassure
Q240 Morning abdo pain only on school days, NO pain when on leave
Key clue Pain disappears off school
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Anxiety/functional -> reassure / family therapy
Q263 Morning abdo pain resolves afternoon, recurrent school absence
Key clue School absence pattern
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Family interview
Q472 Functional constipation child (imaging / no investigation)
Key clue No red flags
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No investigation needed