Does psychological stress affect LUT function in children? ICI-RS 2011

Area of Science:

• Pediatric urology
• Child psychology
• Behavioral science

Background:

• Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in children, including nocturnal enuresis (NE) and daytime urinary incontinence (DUI), are frequently associated with psychological distress.
• A significant percentage of children with NE (20-40%) and DUI (30-40%) exhibit clinical psychiatric disorders.
• The interplay between psychological factors and LUTS is complex, influenced by both genetic and environmental interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of the associations between psychological factors and LUTS in children.
• To discuss potential causal relationships between these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of relevant scientific literature.
• Emphasis on studies with population-based and representative results.

Main Results:

• Four primary associations between psychological symptoms/disorders and LUTS/NE/DUI were identified:
• 1. Psychological issues as a consequence of LUTS/NE/DUI.
• 2. Psychological issues induced by LUTS/NE/DUI.
• 3. Shared etiological factors causing both conditions.
• 4. Co-occurrence without a direct causal link.

Conclusions:

• A descriptive approach is recommended due to the complexity of the associations.
• Identification of specific LUTS/NE/DUI subtypes and co-occurring psychological symptoms is essential.
• Screening for psychological symptoms using parental behavioral questionnaires is advised.
• Counseling and appropriate treatment should be provided when indicated.