Samsung Medical Center launches specialized pediatric gastrointestinal care

Samsung Medical Center has introduced a specialized in-depth clinic for pediatric gastrointestinal and nutritional issues. Led by Professor Choi Yeon-ho of the Department of Pediatrics, the clinic aims to assist children and adolescents experiencing recurring symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea, even when standard medical tests show no physical abnormalities.

The program focuses on cases where psychological factors, such as stress from school life or anxiety, may manifest as physical symptoms—a condition often referred to as brain-gut interaction disorders. This includes conditions like irritable bowel syndrome and functional abdominal pain.

Professor Choi will conduct these specialized sessions every Monday morning. The approach emphasizes listening to the patient's daily life experiences, including mealtime stressors and social environments, to identify underlying causes that medication alone may not resolve.