Vol. 19 No. 2 (2021)
An Approach To:

Approach to: Pediatric urinary tract infection (UTI)

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Maria Giannoumis
McGill University
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.26443/mjm.v19i1.312

Published 2021-07-12

Keywords

  • Pediatric,
  • Urinary Tract Infections,
  • Clinical Approach

How to Cite

1.
Giannoumis M. Approach to: Pediatric urinary tract infection (UTI). McGill J Med [Internet]. 2021 Jul. 12 [cited 2025 Oct. 6];19(2). Available from: https://mjm.mcgill.ca/article/view/312

Copyright (c) 2021 McGill Journal of Medicine

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.

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Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are prevalent in the children. Presentation of UTI vary in children of different ages. In infants, who cannot localize symptoms, UTI can present with a fever whereas in older children a UTI can present with urinary symptoms (dysuria, urinary frequency, incontinence). It is important to establish a clear diagnosis in order to treat and resolve the infection with antibiotics therapy to prevent bacteremia, pyelonephritis, and long-tern renal disease. Urine is collected through a mid-stream urine sample, in toilet trained children, via urethral catheterization, suprapubic aspiration and pediatric urine collection bags. Urine analysis and culture are the first-line investigations in children with suspected UTI. Goals of treatment include elimination of infection, relief of acute symptoms, and prevention of recurrent and long-term complications. The Canadian Pediatric Society recommends initial treatment with oral antibiotics for nontoxic children with febrile UTIs. Imaging, such as a renal/bladder ultrasound, may be used.

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