Emerging Role of Microbiome in the Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections in Children

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Pediatric Urology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• The urinary tract microbiome (urobiome) is vital for bladder homeostasis, urothelial integrity, and immune function.
• Dysbiosis is associated with urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, and lower urinary tract dysfunction.
• Limited research exists on the pediatric urobiome and its implications for child health and urologic diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the healthy pediatric urobiome.
• To explore the role of urobiome dysbiosis in pediatric urinary tract infections.
• To review strategies for modifying the pediatric urobiome in recurrent UTIs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pediatric urobiome studies.
• Analysis of existing data on urobiome composition and function in children.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on dysbiosis and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• The pediatric urobiome composition varies with age and health status.
• Specific microbial profiles are linked to increased UTI risk in children.
• Emerging strategies focus on microbiome modulation for UTI prevention and treatment.

Conclusions:

• The pediatric urobiome is essential for urinary tract health.
• Dysbiosis contributes to pediatric urologic conditions, particularly recurrent UTIs.
• Targeting the urobiome offers promising therapeutic avenues for children with urologic issues.