Urinary tract infection is one of the most common bacterial infections in childhood and is an important clinical problem. Approximately 2% of boys and 8% of girls by the age of seven have a urinary tract infection. Up to 30% of children who have had an infection may develop re-infection.
What are the symptoms?
Complaints vary depending on age. Especially in young children under 2 years of age, we may encounter nonspecific findings such as fever, restlessness, vomiting, malnutrition, and developmental delay. Therefore, the diagnosis may be overlooked at this age. Older children usually present with complaints of burning during urination, frequent urination, fever, and pain in the lower abdomen or sides.
How is the diagnosis made?
For diagnosis, it is first necessary to perform a urine analysis. In children who are not toilet trained, a urine sample is taken with a bag or directly from the bladder with a catheter. Although taking a urine sample with a bag is a common practice, it is not always a reliable method. Taking a sample directly from the bladder gives more reliable results. After toilet training, urine sampling is done in a sterile container. If there are signs of infection after urinalysis, a urine culture test is performed to confirm the diagnosis.
What is its importance?
Urinary tract infections may be the first presenting complaint in children with structural or functional urinary tract disorders. Permanent damage to the kidneys may occur, especially in febrile urinary tract infections. This damage to the kidneys can cause hypertension and even kidney failure in the long term. Therefore, febrile and recurrent urinary tract infections, especially in young children, require detailed evaluation. During this evaluation, ultrasonography and other imaging methods may be required. Urinary tract infection is a common condition in older children with bladder dysfunction caused by bedwetting.
How is it treated?
Appropriate antibiotics are given according to the analysis results. Generally, oral medications are sufficient. A response to treatment is usually seen within the first 24-48 hours. If high fever and general condition deterioration occur, you should be hospitalized. Inpatient treatment may also be required
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