Gastrointestinal Disorders in Adolescents

Abstract

Gastrointestinal disorders are common in adolescents. Chronic abdominal pain, lactose intolerance, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome represent the most common gastrointestinal complaints, while inflammatory bowel disease is the major chronic disorder of concern to clinicians. Gallstones and pancreatitis may also be seen in this age group. The authors describe the diagnosis and treatment of these gastrointestinal disorders.