Abdominal pain remains one of the most common reasons for an acute visit to a health care professional. While many patients will not receive a specific diagnosis as the cause of their symptoms, a systematic approach to each patient is imperative as life-threatening processes present with gastrointestinal complaints. In this issue of Emergency Medicine Clinics of North America , we have brought together a group of articles that provides such a systematic approach. Many of us approach the abdomen in an anatomic fashion, considering the abdomen as a series of interconnected boxes that house unique disease pathology with localizing symptoms. This issue has articles divided in just such a manner. In addition, we have dedicated articles to common symptom presentations, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal hemorrhage. As previously mentioned, the abdomen houses a number of life-threatening conditions. One article delves into the vascular catastrophes, those conditions that require action that is measured in minutes rather than hours or days. Special populations are discussed as well, including pediatric patients, geriatric patients, immunocompromised patients, and those patients that have undergone bariatric surgery. Today’s expert clinicians are expected to practice medicine in an evidence-based fashion. With this thought in mind, we have added an article on the evidence-based approach to a patient with abdominal pain. Keeping in mind the age-old adage that “the diaphragm is not a brick wall,” we have also included an article on nonabdominal causes of abdominal pain. It has been our privilege assembling this talented group of authors. We have learned a tremendous amount through their efforts, and it is our hope that you will as well.
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