Urinary tract infections in children

  • Elzbieta Osuch Sefako Makghato Health Sciences University
  • Andre Marais
Keywords: Urinary tract infection, children, cystitis, pyelonephritis, antibiotics

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in childhood and represent approximately 10% of hospital-acquired infections. It is clinically challenging to distinguish cystitis (lower UTI) from pyelonephritis (upper UTI) in those younger than two years. Most UTI patients can however be safely managed as outpatients if diligent follow-up procedures are in place. Recurrent UTIs in children may indicate malfunction or an anatomical defect of the urinary tract, and require specialised diagnostic studies. The proper approach for a child with UTI remains controversial, and treatment often differs according to regional or institutional empirical guidelines.

Author Biographies

Elzbieta Osuch, Sefako Makghato Health Sciences University
Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics School of Medicine Sefako Makghato Health Sciences University South Africa
Andre Marais
Specialist Clinical Pharmacologist Department of Pharmacology University of Pretoria
Published
2018-01-18
Section
Review Articles