Chest pain in pediatrics

Pediatr Clin North Am. 1999 Apr;46(2):189-203. doi: 10.1016/s0031-3955(05)70112-7.

Abstract

Chest pain in the pediatric population is a common and mostly benign occurrence. A thorough history and physical examination are usually all that are necessary in excluding the rare, life-threatening causes of chest pain. These rare, life-threatening events require immediate evaluation, treatment, and subspecialty consultation. Idiopathic chest pain is the most common diagnosis, and the symptoms are typically chronic. laboratory testing is usually nondiagnostic, costly, and burdensome to patients and therefore unnecessary. A long-term, trusting relationship with the patients and their families is needed to reassure them and allow symptoms to resolve.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Chest Pain / diagnosis*
  • Chest Pain / etiology*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Chronic Disease
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Medical History Taking
  • Pediatrics
  • Physical Examination