[Centrally mediated abdominal pain syndrome: how should we understand it?]

Abstract

Centrally mediated abdominal pain syndrome (CAPS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder newly proposed in the Rome Ⅳ diagnostic criteria, highlighting the important role of abnormal gut-brain interaction in pathogenesis. Careful and detailed inquiry of the characteristics of abdominal pain, accompanying behaviors, and psychosocial background can help to establish the diagnosis of CAPS and reduce unnecessary examinations and interventions. The good and effective doctor-patient relationship, combined with medications such as neuromodulators and non-drug treatments such as psychotherapy can maximize the efficiency. This article addresses the challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of CAPS by elaborating on the diagnostic criteria, pathogenesis, clinical features, and therapeutic strategies, aiming to enhance the understanding of CAPS.