ABSTRACT Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) represent one of the leading causes of pediatric consultations and are characterized by persistent or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms in the absence of identifiable organic abnormalities according to Rome IV criteria. Their pathophysiology is complex and multifactorial, consistent with a biopsychosocial model in which the gut–brain axis plays a central role [...]

ABSTRACT Acute gastroenteritis is one of the most frequent causes of paediatric emergency department visits. Dehydration is its main complication, potentially severe if not promptly recognised and treated. This article reviews the clinical assessment of dehydration severity, rehydration therapy in the acute setting, and criteria for safe home management with appropriate monitoring.   ABSTRACT La [...]

ABSTRACT The decline in physicians’ listening time negatively impacts communication in pediatric emergency care and highlights the gap between parental perception and clinical assessment, often worsened by waiting times and online information. This article aims to stress the value of active listening, clear language, and shared decision-making. Empathetic communication reduces misunderstandings, strengthens trust, and improves [...]

ABSTRACT The fragile child with complex chronic conditions represents a growing challenge for the Italian healthcare system. Despite accounting for a small percentage of the population, these patients place a significant burden on healthcare resource utilization, particularly in terms of emergency department visits. Fragmentation between primary care and hospital settings exposes these patients to diagnostic [...]

ABSTRACT Acute respiratory infections represent the leading cause of illness in pediatric patients and are predominantly caused by viral pathogens. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 has modified both the epidemiology and the clinical approach in children, who nevertheless experience asymptomatic or mild disease in the majority of cases, with a low incidence of severe illness. Careful [...]

ABSTRACT Children and adolescents complaining of articular pain are frequently encountered in pediatric practice. Because this symptom may be related to a wide variety of illnesses, the differential diagnosis is often difficult. In this review, we provide an overview of the main causes of musculoskeletal pain in the pediatric age and highlight the most useful [...]

ABSTRACT The exponential increase in childhood obesity represents one of the most pressing global health challenges of our time. In parallel with this epidemic, there has been a significant increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs), ready-to-eat industrial products, rich in added sugars, fats, salt and additives, but poor in essential nutrients. This article [...]

ABSTRACT Thrombocytopenia is a frequent finding in pediatric practice, yet its interpretation requires a systematic and integrated approach. Causes range from transient post-infectious forms to congenital or neoplastic disorders. This article offers a concise update on the diagnostic and therapeutic approach, in line with the latest Italian Association of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology (AIEOP) recommendations [...]