Evaluation and management of enuresis in the general paediatric setting

James Harris1, Alisa Lipson1, Joana Dos Santos1

  • 1Canadian Paediatric Society, Community Paediatrics Committee, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Paediatrics & Child Health
|September 25, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Bedwetting (enuresis) assessment requires differentiating types and identifying other health issues. Addressing these factors together improves treatment success for this common childhood condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nephrology
  • Urology
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Enuresis is a common pediatric issue requiring careful assessment.
  • Distinguishing between monosymptomatic and non-monosymptomatic enuresis is crucial.
  • Identifying and managing concomitant comorbidities is essential for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the assessment and management of enuresis in children.
  • To emphasize the importance of differentiating enuresis types and comorbidities.
  • To guide clinicians in selecting appropriate therapeutic interventions.

Main Methods:

  • Patient and family education on enuresis natural history.
  • Behavioral guidance and practical management strategies.
  • Consideration of enuresis alarms and desmopressin for active intervention.

Main Results:

  • Limited evidence supports specific interventions, necessitating shared decision-making.
  • Concurrent management of co-occurring factors optimizes outcomes.
  • Emerging clinical refinements and combined treatment modalities show promise.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive approach to enuresis, including type differentiation and comorbidity management, is key.
  • Patient and family involvement in treatment selection is vital.
  • Further research into refined and combined treatment strategies is ongoing.

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