Greenberger's CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment Gastroenterology, Hepatology

Molly L. Perencevich; Frederick L. Makrauer

This excerpt from Greenberger's CURRENT Diagnosis & Treatment Gastroenterology, Hepatology, & Endoscopy, 4e, focuses on the initial assessment of acute abdominal pain. It stresses the importance of a comprehensive history and physical examination, noting that factors like advanced age, immunosuppression, pregnancy, and socioeconomic influences can lead to atypical presentations. The text also addresses the role of pain medication, the judicious use of imaging studies like CT and MRI, and the consideration of non-surgical and functional causes of pain. Additionally, it highlights the need to be aware of and mitigate disparities and bias in patient care.