Study of lactose intolerance in preschool children with recurrent abdominal pain

ABSTRACT

The study included 100 children aged 2-6 years complaining of recurrent abdominal pain [RAP], and 100 healthy children of matching age and had no abdominal pain, as a control. All children were subjected to careful history taking and physical examination, urine analysis, repeated stool analysis, and tests for lactose intolerance [LI]. These tests include stool pH by pH filter papers and Clintest tablets for reducing substances in stools. Evidence of LI was obtained in 46% of preschool children. There was a significant increase of LI from 23.5% to 64% between the third and sixth year of life with the striking increase occurring around the age of 4 years. The incidence of LI in preschool children with RAP was 62% with high statistical significance compared to controls. Parasitic infestation had no effect on lactose absorption in children with RAP. Giardiasis only had a significantly higher incidence of LI, denoting possible interference with lactose absorption. LI is an important clinical problem in children, especially in those with RAP. In all children with RAP, tests for LI should be carried out and dietary modifications and restrictions should be implemented. This is also recommended for children with Giardiasis