Recurrent abdominal pain is one of the most common chronic illnesses of childhood. Yet an organic cause can be found in less than 5 per cent of cases. The lack of a clear aetiology has prompted researchers to theorise possible causes, but researchers have had more success in isolating how children with recurrent abdominal pain differ from their peers.

The second article looks at depression in childhood, looking at its prevalence, diagnosis, assessment and management.