pediatrics
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) in Children
Introduction
Urinary tract infection (UTI) is defined by≥5×104colonies/mL in a catheterized urine specimen or, in older children, by repeated voided specimens with≥105colonies/mL. In younger children, UTIs are frequently associated with anatomic abnormalities. UTI may cause fever, failure to thrive, flank pain, and signs of sepsis, especially in young children. Treatment is with antibiotics. Follow-up imaging studies of the urinary tract are done. Urinary tract infection (UTI) may involve the kidneys, bladder, or both. Sexually transmitted infections of the urethra (eg, gonococcal or chlamydial urethritis), although involving the urinary tract, are not typically termed UTI. Mechanisms that maintain the normal sterility of the urinary tract include urine acidity and free flow, a normal emptying mechanism, intact ureterovesical and urethral sphincters, and immunologic and mucosal barriers. Abnormality of any of these mechanisms predisposes to UTI. (For adults, see Introduction to Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) .) 