Urinary tract infection in infants and children in Al-Jahra area, Kuwait: an overview

ABSTRACT

To find the prevalence of urinary tract infections [UTI] in Al-Jahra area, Kuwait and to evaluate the clinical data and laboratory tests that help in the diagnosis of UTI in children. Patients and One hundred and forty-eight patients with proven UTI were included in this study. They were subjected to detailed history and thorough clinical examination. Urine was collected for analysis and culture, and imaging studies necessary for evaluation of the urinary tract were done. Our patients commonly presented with fever and lower urinary symptoms. The majority had no physical signs. Urinalysis was positive in almost all patients, and the organism most commonly isolated was E. coli. Ultrasound examination was useful in the identification of urinary tract anomalies and abnormalities of renal growth. Renal scars were found in 21% of patients. UTI are common in infants and children in A l - Jahra area; 5.5% are affected. They usually present with fever and lower urinary tract symptoms. The disease has to be suspected in febrile patients even in the presence of an equivocal cause of the fever; urinalysis can help in such decision. Furthermore, it is important to treat patients p romptly and effectively because of the potential sequelae