Stomach pain with loss of balance

My 13 year old son has been suffering for the past three weeks with pain in the abdominal area, loss of balance, swollen glands, tiredness and nauseous when on his feet.  He has does not have appendicitis, glandular fever, clear MRI scan on the brain, clear chest xray, blood check on liver ok, blood test showing no infection in the body.  ENT can't find anything wrong, he is off school as they can't accommodate a wheel chair and he can't concentrate on school work for more than an hour!  Does anyone out that have any ideas?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

To evaluate for abdominal causes, a CT scan should be considered in addition to the tests already mentioned to fully evaluate the abdominal pain.  A sort of infection or mass can cause the pain.  Upper and lower endoscopy can be considered if the tests continue to be non-revealing.  

Regarding the balance loss - I would suggest a referral to a neurologist for further evaluation.  In addition to the MRI brain scan, an MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) of the cerebral vessels can be considered to evaluate for any insufficiency (although this would be uncommon in children).  Another ENT opinion may also be considered for the workup of the dizziness.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

[PAJ]

I would still consider an infection as a possibility. Very often blood tests do not pick up infections , not many tests are conclusive ,and I bet he hasn