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Toilet habits of children evaluated for urinary tract infection
J Wan1, R Kaplinsky, S Greenfield
1Department of Urology, Children's Hospital of Buffalo, State University of New York at Buffalo, USA.
Insights
Children's toilet habits significantly impact urinary tract infections (UTIs). Abnormal voiding and constipation are common in children with negative imaging results for UTIs, suggesting functional issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Urology
- Child Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in children.
- The role of toilet habits in pediatric UTIs requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively examine the association between toilet habits and urinary tract infections in children.
- To identify potential functional voiding issues contributing to UTIs.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 95 children (77 girls, 24 boys) post-UTI, excluding those with known urological conditions.
- Imaging studies (voiding cystourethrogram, renal ultrasound) and toilet habit diaries were utilized.
- Children were categorized into negative (n=60) and positive (n=35) imaging groups.
Main Results:
- Abnormal voiding or constipation was present in 90% of the negative imaging group versus 60% of the positive imaging group (p=0.0001).
- Children with negative imaging studies showed a higher prevalence of constipation and abnormal voiding patterns.
Conclusions:
- Toilet habits play a crucial role in the development of pediatric urinary tract infections.
- Routine evaluation for constipation and abnormal voiding is recommended for children diagnosed with UTIs, especially those with negative imaging results.
Abstract:
The toilet habits of 77 girls and 24 boys who were evaluated after having a urinary tract infection were examined prospectively. Children with known urological conditions that can predispose to urinary tract infections were excluded. A voiding cystourethrogram and renal ultrasound were performed, and a diary of toilet habits was obtained for all patients. Six children were lost to followup. Of the remaining 95 children imaging studies were negative in 60 (negative imaging group) and positive in 35 (positive imaging group). Only 10% of the negative imaging group were without constipation or abnormal voiding compared to 60% of the positive imaging group (p = 0.0001). Toilet habits can affect the development of urinary tract infections. Our data suggest that the evaluation of urinary tract infection should include an inquiry into these habits. Among children with negative imaging studies there may be functional problems that promote the development of urinary tract infections.