ABSTRACT
Acute abdominal pain is a very common presentation with a wide range of potential causes. In the majority of cases, abdominal pain reflects pathology involving intra-abdominal or pelvic organs, but the abdominal wall and occasionally referred pain from the thoracic cavity and mediastinum may potentially be responsible. In the context of acute abdominal pain look particularly for: Signs of peritonism and unstable clinical observations. Employ the usual approach to a history, for example site, radiation, nature, intensity of pain. The investigations undertaken should always be tailored to the specifics of each patient, but the following are usually considered for the ‘typical’ patient with acute abdominal pain: Routine bloods: Full blood count, urea and electrolytes, liver function test, clotting and serum amylase/lipase. As for any patient presenting acutely, the initial hurdle is determining his or her overall stability. If the patient is showing signs of instability, involve a senior at an early stage.
