Childhood Enuresis: Current Diagnostic Formulations, Salient Findings, and Effective Treatment Modalities

Area of Science:

• Pediatric urology
• Child psychology
• Behavioral therapy

Background:

• Enuresis, or involuntary urination during sleep, affects children's social and emotional well-being.
• Historically, enuresis has been a persistent concern, with varied understandings of its causes and treatments.
• Current understanding includes diagnostic criteria, prevalence, and psychiatric links.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of enuresis in children.
• To discuss historical and current perspectives on enuresis causation and treatment.
• To highlight evidence-based interventions, particularly the urine alarm and dry bed training.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and current enuresis concepts.
• Analysis of diagnostic criteria and prevalence data.
• Evaluation of evidence-based treatment modalities, including behavioral interventions.

Main Results:

• Enuresis has a long history with evolving conceptualizations and treatments.
• Psychiatric comorbidities are associated with enuresis.
• The urine alarm is a key component of effective enuresis treatment.
• Dry bed training, combining the urine alarm with other procedures, is recommended for professionals.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of enuresis requires understanding its history, diagnosis, and comorbidities.
• Evidence-based treatments, especially dry bed training, are crucial for successful outcomes.
• Special considerations are needed for juvenile psychiatric patients with enuresis.