Urinary tract infection in children: investigation and long-term management of children up to 8 years

Date published:  August 2007
State: Published

In the past 30-50 years the natural history of urinary tract infections (UTI) in children has changed as a result of the introduction of antibiotics and improvements in health care.  This changes has contributed to uncertainty about the most appropriate and effective way to diagnose and treat UTI in children and whether or not investigations and follow up are justified.

UTI is one of the commonest bacterial infections causing illness in infants and children and may be difficult to recognise becuse the presenting symptoms are non-specific.  Urine collection and interpretation of urine tests in infants and toddlers are not easy and therefore may not be always to confirm the diagnosis.  This guideline aims to lead to more consistent practice by considering the effectiveness of investigations and treatment, including surgical intervention.

Guidance on the following aspects of care is provided:

  • When to consider the diagnosis of UTI in sick and/or symtomatic infants and children who were previously healthy
  • When and how to collect urine for the diagnosis of UTI
  • Which tests establish or exclude UTI as the cause of illness in infants and children
  • How to treat sick and/or symptomatic infants and children.

For general enquiries about this guideline please email: enquiries@ncc-wch.org.uk.

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Updated 27 February 2008