The standardization of terminology of lower urinary tract function in children and adolescents: update report from the Standardization Committee of the International Children's Continence Society

The value of case history and early treatment data as predictors of enuresis alarm therapy response

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Two central problems with the enuresis alarm are the family workload and the lack of predictors of therapy response. We wanted to look at predictors of alarm response in a setting reflecting clinical reality.

METHODS

An alarm linked to a smartphone app was provided to enuretic children managed at pediatric outpatient wards. Baseline data (sex, age, daytime incontinence, urgency, previous therapies, arousal thresholds and baseline enuresis frequency) were recorded. Further information, such as enuretic episodes and actual alarm use, was gathered via the app during therapy. Therapy was given for 8-12 weeks or until 14 consecutive dry nights had been achieved.

RESULTS

For the 196 recruited children the outcome was as follows: full responders (FR) 18.4%, partial responders (PR) 20.4%, nonresponders (NR) 22.4% and dropouts 38.8%. We found no clear predictors of response or adherence among baseline data. But as treatment progressed responders reduced their enuresis frequency as compared to NR (week two P = 0.003, week three and onwards P < 0.001). This is further illustrated in the Figure below. Furthermore, the children unable to complete the full treatment had more non-registered nights already from the second week (week two P = 0.005, week three P = 0.002 and so on).

DISCUSSION

Anamnestic data give little predictive information regarding enuresis alarm response or adherence. Contrary to common belief neither daytime incontinence nor previous alarm attempts influenced treatment success. But after 2-4 weeks of therapy the children with a good chance of treatment success could be discerned by decreasing enuresis frequency, and the families that would not be able to comply with the full treatment showed incomplete adherence already during the first weeks.

CONCLUSIONS

Maybe the enuresis alarm strategy should be changed so that the treatment is reassessed after one month and only children with a high chance of success continue. This way, unnecessary frustration for the families of therapy-resistant children may be reduced.

Functional urination or defecation disorders may be warning signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among children in rural China

BACKGROUND

This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its association with functional urination and defecation disorders among children in rural China.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted with children aged 6-18 in rural schools in southwest China using a survey questionnaire. The Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Questionnaire-IV (SNAP-IV) was used to measure ADHD symptoms, and standardized questions about urination and defecation were used to measure lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) and functional defecation disorders (FDDs). The association of ADHD with LUTS and FDDs was analyzed by matched logistic regression after propensity score matching was performed to minimize the influence of potential confounders, including demographic characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 17,279 participants were included in the analyses. The prevalence of ADHD was 2 % mainly among boys before age 12, after which it showed a decreasing trend with age, resulting in a concomitant reduction in gender differences. The risk of ADHD was positively associated with the presence of enuresis, holding maneuvers, intermittency, and encopresis, with encopresis having the strongest association (P = 0.001). The presence of holding maneuvers, intermittency, excessive volitional stool retention, and encopresis were associated with a higher risk of ADHD at 6-15 years-old, with intermittency exhibiting an increasingly positive association with ADHD risk across ages 6-15.

CONCLUSIONS

ADHD was associated with LUTS and FDDs, which highlights that functional urination and/or defecation disorders could serve as warning signs for ADHD that should trigger screening, especially in relatively backward regions with little ADHD awareness.

Relationship between primary monosymptomatic enuresis and process toilet training: a case-control

OBJECTIVE

Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is a prevalent condition in childhood, and the pathophysiology is multifactorial. This study investigated the relationship between the toilet training process (TT) and PMNE in children and adolescents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A case-control study was carried out from 2015 to 2020. The presence of PMNE was identified according to International Children's Continence Society criteria. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to assess TT.

RESULTS

The study included 103 children and adolescents with PMNE and 269 participants with normal psychomotor development without PMNE (control group [CG]). Readiness signals were more remembered and less frequent in participants with PMNE (p=0.001) when compared to control group. No differences were found between the groups regarding the onset age of the daytime TT (p= 0.10), the nocturnal TT (p=0.08), the acquisition of daytime continence (p=0.06), and the type of equipment used for the TT (p=0.99). The use of Child-Oriented approach in group of children with enuresis was lower than in controls [87.4% (90/103) versus 94% (250/266)], respectively (OR= 0.44, 95% CI 0.21-0.94, p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

The age of onset of TT, acquisition of daytime continence, and the type of equipment were not associated with higher occurrence of PMNE. On the other hand, the Child-Oriented approach was a protective factor for the occurrence of PMNE.

Management of Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections: A Delphi Study

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infectious diseases in the pediatric population and represents a major cause of antibiotic consumption and hospitalization in children. Considering the ongoing controversies on the management of pediatric UTI and the challenges due to increasing antimicrobial resistance, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the level of agreement on UTI management in pediatric age in Emilia-Romagna Region, Italy, and to assess on the basis of recent studies whether there is the need to change current recommendations used by primary care pediatricians, hospital pediatricians, and pediatric surgeons in everyday clinical practice to possibly improve outcomes. This consensus provides clear and shared indications on UTI management in pediatric age, based on the most updated literature. This work represents, in our opinion, the most complete and up-to-date collection of statements on procedures to follow for pediatric UTI, in order to guide physicians in the management of the patient, standardize approaches, and avoid abuse and misuse of antibiotics. Undoubtedly, more randomized and controlled trials are needed in the pediatric population to better define the best therapeutic management in cases with antimicrobial resistance and real usefulness of long-term antibiotic prophylaxis.

Fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and constipation does not make them dry at night

BACKGROUND

Constipation, daytime incontinence and nocturnal enuresis often overlap. Treatment of constipation has been shown to be an important aspect of therapy for children with daytime incontinence. However, the value of fecal disimpaction, as a part of constipation therapy, in children with enuresis has not been evaluated.

AIM

Our aim was to evaluate the antienuretic effect of fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and concomitant constipation.

METHODS

The bladder and bowel function was assessed noninvasively in children aged six to ten years who sought help for enuresis for the first time. If they were constipated according to the Rome IV criteria or had a rectal diameter exceeding 30 mm, as assessed by ultrasound, they were given standard evacuation with mini-enemas and macrogol therapy for at least two weeks. Enuresis frequency was documented 14 nights preceding and following therapy.

RESULTS

In total, 66 children (20 girls, 46 boys) were evaluated, 23 (35%) of whom were constipated. There were no differences in age, sex or baseline bladder function between the two groups. The enuresis frequency per two weeks was 9.8 ± 4.1 nights before and 9.3 ± 5.1 nights after constipation therapy (p = 0.43).

DISCUSSION

This study found that fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis who are also constipated did not alleviate nocturnal enuresis. Bowel problems may still need to be addressed but the child should not be given the false hope that this approach alone will make them dry at night. It might be that evidenced based therapies, such as the enuresis alarm and desmopressin, could be less efficient in children with enuresis and constipation unless their bowel disturbance is first properly addressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and concomitant constipation will, by itself, not make the children dry at night.

Urodynamics findings pre- and post-untethering surgery in children with filum lipoma: A single-institution experience

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the changes in urodynamics and voiding cystourethrogram parameters on pre- and post-untethering surgery in patients aged under 2 years with filum lipoma.

METHODS

Sixty-two patients were enrolled in this study. The changes in urodynamics and voiding cystourethrogram parameters were compared before untethering surgery and 6 months after untethering surgery. These parameters were bladder volume, bladder deformity, vesicoureteral reflux during voiding cystourethrogram, detrusor overactivity, bladder compliance, and post-void residual volume in urodynamics.

RESULTS

Bladder volume during voiding cystourethrogram and bladder compliance increased significantly from 89.8 ± 49.5 mL to 114.5 ± 50.5 mL (P = 0.0069) and 10.2 ± 6.2 mL/mmH2 O to 17.0 ± 13.3 mL/mmH2 O (P = 0.0008), respectively, at 6-month follow-up. Six patients required combination management with clean intermittent catheterization at 25.1 ± 8.2 months (14.3 ± 6.5-months follow-up) because of elevated post-void residual volumes.

CONCLUSIONS

According to voiding cystourethrogram results, bladder function and urodynamics in patients with filum lipoma significantly improved after untethering surgery. Non-invasive assessment based on measurements of post-void residual should be considered as a postoperative follow-up method.

Accuracy of the short screening instrument for psychological problems (SSIPPE) in enuresis in the Identification of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity symptoms in the enuretic population

INTRODUCTION

Enuresis prevalence is approximately 5-15% in children aged 6-7 years. The presence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in enuretic children is associated with 3 times greater risk of persistent enuresis. The Multimodal Treatment Study for ADHD (MTA) Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham version IV (SNAP-IV) is one of the most used instruments to evaluate ADHD symptoms, but it is a time-consuming questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to compare the accuracy of an easy questionnaire named Short Screening Instrument for Psychological Problems in Enuresis (SSIPPE) to MTA-SNAP-IV in identifying ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents with enuresis.

METHODS

ADHD symptoms screening was performed by applying SSIPPE and MTA-SNAP-IV in 160 children and adolescents with enuresis, aged 6-14 years, who regularly attended a specialized clinic for pediatric urology.

RESULTS

A total of 153 individuals with enuresis were included in the study (52% males), among them 55 (35.9%) were considered positive for inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity by the MTA-SNAP-IV. Sensitivity for SSIPPE concerning MTA-SNAP-IV was 85.5%, and specificity was 84.7%, with an overall accuracy of 85% in identifying ADHD symptoms.

DISCUSSION

In the present study, we found high accuracy of SSIPPE in relation to MTA-SNAP-IV in identifying ADHD symptoms in the enuretic population, with substantial agreement between instruments. Its sensitivity and specificity were considered high for a screening method. However, there are some limitations. The population studied is composed of a group of children with enuresis, which can lead to an overestimation of the test's accuracy, as the disorder under investigation is more prevalent in this population. This can be explained by the high specificity of the test (84.7%) associated with the fact that the SSIPPE is an instrument tailored for an enuretic population, unlike the MTA-SNAP IV.

CONCLUSION

The SSIPPE has proven to be a reliable tool in identifying ADHD symptoms in the enuretic population. In addition to being a quick and easily applicable instrument.

Daytime urotherapy in nocturnal enuresis: a randomised, controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

According to international guidelines, children with enuresis are recommended urotherapy, or basic bladder advice, before treatment with evidence-based alternatives such as the enuresis alarm is given. The efficacy of this strategy has, however, not been supported by controlled studies. We wanted to test if basic bladder advice is useful in enuresis.

DESIGN

Randomised, controlled trial.

SETTING

Paediatric outpatient ward, regional hospital.

PATIENTS

Treatment-naïve enuretic children aged ≥6 years, with no daytime incontinence.

INTERVENTIONS

Three groups, each during 8 weeks: (A) basic bladder advice-that is, voiding and drinking according to a strict schedule and instructions regarding toilet posture, (B) enuresis alarm therapy and (C) no treatment (control group).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Reduction in enuresis frequency during week 7-8 compared with baseline.

RESULTS

The median number of wet nights out of 14 before and at the end of treatment were in group A (n=20) 12.5 and 11.5 (p=0.44), in group B (n=22) 11.0 and 3.5 (p<0.001) and in group C (n=18) 12.5 and 12.0 (p=0.55). The difference in reduction of enuresis frequency between the groups was highly significant (p=0.002), but no difference was found between basic bladder advice and controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Urotherapy, or basic bladder advice, is ineffective as a first-line treatment of nocturnal enuresis. Enuretic children who are old enough to be bothered by their condition should be offered treatment with the alarm or desmopressin.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03812094.

Long-term urology outcomes of anorectal malformation

INTRODUCTION

Urological problems are a recognised feature of anorectal malformation (ARM). Previous assumptions of favourable long-term urinary outcomes are being challenged.

OBJECTIVE

We hypothesised that urinary tract problems are common in ARM and frequently persist into adulthood. We retrospectively reviewed long-term renal and bladder outcomes in ARM patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients with ARM born between 1984-2005 were identified from electronic hospital databases. Their case notes were reviewed. Renal outcomes included serum creatinine and the need for renal replacement therapy. Bladder outcomes included symptom review, bladder medication, need for intermittent catheterisation, videourodynamics and whether the patient had undergone augmentation cystoplasty. RESULT (TABLE 1): The case notes of 50 patients were reviewed. The median age at last follow up was 18 years (range 12-34 years). The level of fistula was noted to be high in 17 patients, intermediate in eight, and low in 10. Four had cloaca. Congenital urological abnormalities were present in 25 (50%). An abnormal spinal cord was present in 22 (44%) patients. VACTERL association occurred in 27 (54%). Chronic kidney disease stage II or above was found in 14 (28%) patients, of whom four required a renal transplant. Abnormal bladder outcomes were found in 39 (78%) patients. Augmentation cystoplasty with Mitrofanoff had been performed in 12. Of those who had not undergone cystoplasty, 17 had urinary symptoms, including urinary incontinence in 12. Of the 39 patients with abnormal bladder outcome, 19 (49%) did not have a spinal cord abnormality. There was no significant statistical association between level of ARM and abnormal renal outcome or presence of bladder abnormality.

DISCUSSION

Adverse renal and bladder outcomes are common in our cohort of young people with ARM with a significantly higher incidence compared with current literature. We did not demonstrate an association between level of ARM or presence of spinal cord anomaly with persistent bladder problems. Congenital urological anomalies are more common in those who later have an abnormal renal outcome. Although this difference is statistically significant, one fifth of patients born with anatomically normal upper tracts develop reduced renal function, implying an important acquired component.

CONCLUSION

Bladder problems and reduced renal function affect a significant proportion of young adults with ARM. Neither adverse outcome is reliably predicted from ARM level, congenital urological anomaly or spinal cord anomaly. We advise continued long-term bladder and kidney follow-up for all patients with ARM.

Impact of New vs. Old International Children's Continence Society Standardization on the Classification of Treatment Naïve Enuresis Children at Screening: The Value of Voiding Diaries and Questionnaires

Expert consensus papers recommend differentiating enuresis using questionnaires and voiding diaries into non- (NMNE) and monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE) is crucial at intake to decide the most appropriate workout and treatment. This national, Belgian, prospective study investigates the correlation, consistency, and added value of the two methods, the new against the old International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) definitions, and documents the prevalence of the two enuresis subtypes in our population. Ninety treatment-naïve enuretic children were evaluated with the questionnaire, and the voiding diary and the two clinical management tools were compared. Almost 30% of the children had a different diagnosis with each method, and we observed inconsistencies between them in registering Lower Tract Symptoms (κ = -0.057-0.432 depending on the symptom). Both methods had a high correlation in identifying MNE (rs = 0.612, p = 0.001) but not for NMNE (rs = 0.127, p = 0.248). According to the latest ICCS definitions, the incidence of MNE was significantly lower (7 vs. 48%) with the old standardization.

Conclusion

The voiding diary and the questionnaire, as recommended by the ICCS at the screening of treatment-naïve enuretic patients, are considerably inconsistent and have significantly different sensitivities in identifying LUTS and thus differentiating MNE from NMNE. However, the high incidence of LUTS and very low prevalence of MNE suggest that differentiating MNE from NMNE to the maximum might not always correlate with different therapy responses.

Comparative Efficacy of Transcutaneous Functional Electrical Stimulation With or Without Biofeedback Therapy on Functional Non-retentive Fecal Incontinence in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

We compared the effects of transcutaneous functional electrical stimulation (TFES) and biofeedback therapy with TFES alone in a cohort of children with functional non-retentive fecal incontinence (FNRFI).

METHODS

This prospective, single-center randomized clinical trial was performed on 40 children with FNRFI. Patients were randomly allocated into two equal treatment groups. Group A (n = 20) underwent TFES + biofeedback therapy, and group B (n = 20) received TFES alone. All patients were assessed with a pediatric fecal incontinence (FI) score questionnaire, a visual pain score, and a bowel habit diary both before and at the end of treatment sessions and also at 6 months of follow-up. In addition, a FI quality-of-life (QoL) questionnaire was recorded for all patients before and 6 months after the treatment.

RESULTS

FI significantly improved in 13/20 (65%) patients in group A and 11/20 (55%) patients in group B (P < 0.05). A significant reduction in FI score was seen in each group at the end of treatment sessions and maintained at 6 months of follow-up (P < 0.05). A significant improvement in FI-QoL scores was seen in both groups at 6 months of follow-up in which there was no significant difference in terms of FI-QoL scores improvement between both groups after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of electrical stimulation in combination with other treatment methods improves symptoms in patients with FNRFI who are refractory to conventional treatment.

The effect of biofeedback treatment for children with non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Children's non-neurogenic voiding dysfunction (NVD) is a syndrome characterized by lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTs) because of the inability to relax the external sphincter. Patients with NVD always suffer from urinary tract infections (UTI), incontinence, constipation. The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of biofeedback treatment for children's NVD.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane library database were searched for all relevant studies. Two independent reviewers decided whether to include the study, conducted quality evaluation, and extracted article data. A random-effects model was used to calculate overall effect sizes. Risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) served as the summary statistics for meta-analysis. And sensitivity analysis was subsequently performed.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies and 1274 patients were included in the systemic review, seven RCTs and 539 patients were included in meta-analysis. Meta-analysis showed efficacy of biofeedback treatment in following aspects, (1) relieving UTI (RR: 1.71, 95% CI: 1.11 to 2.64), (2) reducing PVR (MD: 9.51, 95% CI: 2.03 to 16.98), (3) increasing maximum urine flow rate (MD: 4.28, 95% CI: 2.14 to 6.42) and average urine flow rate (MD: 1.49, 95% CI: 0.53 to 2.46), (4) relieving constipation (RR: 1.59, 95% CI: 1.12 to 2.26)，(5) improving abnormal voiding pattern (RR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.30 to 2.36) and abnormal EMG during voiding (RR: 1.55, 95% CI: 1.25 to 1.91). The improvement of UTI symptoms, maximum urine flow rate and average urine flow rate took a longer time (12 months). In terms of daytime incontinence (RR: 1.20, 95% CI [0.96, 1.50], p = 0.11), nighttime incontinence (RR: 1.20, 95% CI [0.62, 2.32], p = 0.58), no significant difference was found between biofeedback treatment and standard urotherapy. The qualitative analysis showed that biofeedback treatment was beneficial for NVD.

CONCLUSION

Compared with standard urotherapy, biofeedback treatment is effective for some symptoms, such as UTI and constipation, and can improve some uroflowmetric parameters, such as PVR. Biofeedback treatment seems to have a better long-term effect.

Video-urodynamic effects of vibegron, a new selective β3-adrenoceptor agonist, on antimuscarinic-resistant neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients with spina bifida

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy, safety and tolerability of vibegron for the treatment of antimuscarinic-resistant neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients with spina bifida.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 15 patients with antimuscarinic-resistant neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to spina bifida underwent a video-urodynamic study before and during the administration of vibegron 50 mg once daily instead of antimuscarinic agents from February 2019 through April 2021. The video-urodynamic study was carried out to evaluate bladder compliance, maximum cystometric bladder capacity, detrusor overactivity, detrusor leak point pressure and vesicoureteral reflux before and >3 months after the beginning of vibegron administration.

RESULTS

Treatment with vibegron significantly improved bladder compliance and maximum cystometric bladder capacity compared with antimuscarinic agents, respectively (7.4 ± 4.2 vs 30.4 ± 48.2 mL/cmH2 O, P = 0.0001; 231.4 ± 81.2 vs 325.2 ± 106.5 mL, P = 0.0005). Detrusor overactivity did not change after the administration of vibegron. Bladder deformity, which was confirmed in 12 patients, improved in half of the patients after taking vibegron. Vesicoureteral reflux, which was confirmed in two patients, was extinguished after taking vibegron. Newly occurring adverse events were not observed, and all patients continued to take vibegron during the treatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

Favorable efficacy of vibegron for antimuscarinic-resistant neurogenic bladder dysfunction due to spina bifida was shown video-urodynamically without apparent adverse events. Vibegron is a favorable option for the treatment of antimuscarinic-resistant neurogenic bladder dysfunction in patients with spina bifida.

An Alarm Watch for Daytime Urinary Incontinence: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

Daytime urinary incontinence is disabling and occurs in 17% of school-aged children. Timed-voiding is part of standard therapy. Can an alarm watch to aid timed-voiding improve treatment response to standard therapy?

METHODS

The WATCH (Watch with Alarm for Timed-Voiding in Children) study is a randomized controlled trial. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to a vibrating alarm or nonalarming watch for 3-months. The primary outcome was the proportion who achieved a complete response (14 consecutive dry days) after 3-months of treatment. Children aged 5 to 13 years who were prescribed timed-voiding for daytime urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

Overall, 243 children, with a mean age of 8 years, were enrolled, with 62% girls. At 3-months, the complete response rates were similar between the 2 groups (22% alarm versus 17% control; difference: 5%; 95% confidence interval (CI): -5% to 16%; P = .42). In the alarm group, treatment adherence was higher (40% vs 10%; difference: 30%; 95% CI: 20% to 40%; P < .001), frequency of incontinence was lower (25% dry; 40% had 1-3 wet days per week, 24% had 4-6 wet days per week, and 12% had daily wetting, compared with 19%, 30%, 35%, and 16%, respectively; P =.05), and fewer had abnormal postvoid residual urine volumes (12% vs 24%; difference: -12%; 95% CI: -21% to -1%; P = .04) compared with the control group. Improvement was transient and did not persist 6 months beyond the treatment period.

CONCLUSIONS

Alarm watches do not appear to lead to complete resolution of urinary incontinence in children but did promote treatment adherence, normalization of postvoid residual volumes, and reduction in incontinent episodes while being used.

Bibliometric and visual analysis of nocturnal enuresis from 1982 to 2022

Nocturnal enuresis is a common disorder among children that seriously affects physical and mental health and has become a social problem. Bibliometric analysis is a valid way to examine existing research results, current research hotspots and research frontiers. Current studies on nocturnal enuresis are numerous and complex, but a bibliometric analysis of the existing research on nocturnal enuresis has yet to be published. To better identify the research trends and frontiers in nocturnal enuresis, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive review and analysis. We used bibliometric and visualization methods to analyze the 1,111 papers published between 1982 and 2022 from the Web of Science core collection. Basic information about the country, institution, and authors was analyzed, which led to a basic understanding of nocturnal enuresis. The United States is the most prolific country, Ghent University is the most influential institution, and Rittig Soren is the most prominent scholar. The frequency of keywords, clustering, and the cited literature were analyzed to understand the hotspots and frontiers of research, and a brief review of the highly cited literature was conducted. The current research hotspots are the treatment modalities for nocturnal enuresis, epidemiological investigations, and the exploration of pathogenesis. Clinical research, adenoidectomy, aquaporin 2, and response inhibition are potential research hotspots. The standardization of terminology in nocturnal enuresis and the pathologies of polyuria and sleep disorder are at the forefront of research. In summary, the results of our bibliometric analysis reveal views on the current situation and the trend of nocturnal enuresis research for the first time. This study may provide guidance for promoting research on nocturnal enuresis.

Problems with enuresis management-A personal view

Much has happened since the end of the era when enuresis was blamed on the parents or the children themselves. Still, there are large gaps in our knowledge and large parts of modern enuresis management guidelines are (still) not based on firm evidence. In this review I will question the following commonly made assumptions regarding enuresis evaluation and treatment: •It is important to subdivide enuresis according to the presence of daytime symptoms•Voiding charts are crucial in the primary evaluation of the enuretic child•All children with enuresis need to be screened for behavioral or psychiatric issues•Concomittant daytime incontinence needs to be successfully treated before addressing the enuresis•Concomittant constipation needs to be successfully treated before addressing the enuresis•Urotherapy is a first-line treatment against enuresis In this review I will argue that much of what we do with these children is based more on experience and well-meant but poorly supported assumptions than on evidence. Some advice and therapies are probably ineffective whereas for other treatments we lack reliable predictors of treatment response. More research is obviously needed, but awaiting new results enuresis management could be substantially simplified.

Improving continence in children and young people with neurodisability: a systematic review and survey

BACKGROUND

Children and young people with neurodisability often need help to achieve socially acceptable bladder and bowel control. Approaches vary depending on whether or not the impairment results from spinal cord pathology that impairs motor control and sensation of the bladder and bowel. Currently, there is uncertainty about which interventions are effective.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to summarise the available evidence on and current practice for improving continence in children and young people with neurodisability.

DESIGN

A systematic review of the effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and factors that modify intervention implementation, alongside a cross-sectional, online survey of current practice with health professionals, parent carers, school and care staff and young people with neurodisability.

RESULTS

Twelve databases were searched in the review, resulting in 5756 references; 71 studies (72 papers) were included in the analyses. Most of the evidence was for children with spinal cord pathology, which involved evaluations of pharmacological approaches and surgical techniques, whereas the evidence pertaining to those with non-spinal-cord-related pathology tended to be for behavioural interventions. The methodological quality of studies was rated as being moderate to poor. There were three robust qualitative studies about the experience of continence among children with spinal cord pathology. We found substantial heterogeneity across the interventions that we evaluated in terms of quality, study design and outcomes measured. No economic studies were found. The results were synthesised narratively and reported in text and tables. We did not find any eligible studies evaluating interventions using toilet and clothing adaptations in the review, although the survey highlighted that these types of interventions are frequently used and considered. In total, 949 people responded to the survey: 202 health professionals, 605 parent carers, 122 school and social care staff, and 20 young people. The survey results illustrated the different roles that professionals have in improving continence, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to supporting children and young people and their families. Clinicians employ a range of assessments and interventions to improve continence or independent toileting, depending on the needs of the child.

LIMITATIONS

Quantitative studies in the review were not methodologically robust. The survey had a risk of response bias.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research found a dearth of good-quality evidence for many of the interventions currently in use, and no evidence of experiences of implementing interventions for children with non-spinal-cord-related pathology. There was also no evidence of cost-effectiveness of any of the interventions.

FUTURE WORK

There is a need to involve young people and families in the design of high-quality evaluative research for interventions that aim to improve continence. This is especially the case for children with autism and learning disability, who have been neglected in previous evaluative and qualitative research. We recommend better training for health, education and care professionals about toileting, informed by evidence and the lived experiences of children and their families. We recommend a joined-up multidisciplinary and holistic approach to improving continence to maximise independence, dignity and comfort. It is vital that children and young people with neurodisability have early access to regular, integrated assessment of their bladder and bowel health, and are fully supported with appropriate personalised treatment.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42018100572.

FUNDING

This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 25, No. 73. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.

Relationship between sleep respiration, architecture and childhood enuresis: Correlates between polysomnography and questionnaire

AIM

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) are common in childhood. While the two disorders are linked, those links are still being clarified.

METHODS

This study compared sleep profiles and enuresis-related behaviours between children with NE and those without, who were referred to a tertiary sleep unit with suspected SDB, using the combination of polysomnography (PSG) and questionnaire. Continuous numerical data were analysed after adjusting for body mass index z-score.

RESULTS

The study included 52 Children (39 boys, 13 girls) aged 5-14 years. Twenty-one had enuresis (10 monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE) and 11 non-monosymptomatic enuresis (NMNE)) and 31 did not have enuresis. The majority had comorbidities. On PSG, all children with NE had moderate obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) compared to the control group which were of mild OSA. Children with NMNE had a higher percentage time in stage-3 non-REM sleep when compared to the non-enuretic and MNE groups (P < 0.05). On the questionnaire, more parents of the NE groups reported that their child was 'difficult to wake in the morning' (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this heterogeneous population referred for suspected SDB, children with NE had moderate OSA, yet those with MNE had increased arousals and more often report difficulty waking than children with suspected SDB who do not wet, while children with NMNE exhibit changes in sleep architecture suggesting deeper sleep. These differences may impact treatment choices for children with enuresis.

Reduced bladder capacity without daytime voiding symptoms with nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of monosymotomatic nocturnal enuresis (MSNE) with reduced bladder capacity in children with primary nocturnal enuresis (NE) and to suggest treatment outcomes.

METHODS

This study retrospectively evaluated 54 children (30 males, 24 females; median age: 8; range: 5-14) who were newly diagnosed with primary NE from November 2017 to October 2019. Reduced bladder capacity in MSNE was defined when a patient's maximal voided volume (MVV) from his or her voiding diary was 75% or less than estimated functional bladder capacity ([age + 1] x 30 mL) for his or her age and there were no daytime lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) as assessed using history taking and questionnaires.

RESULTS

Nineteen (35.2%) of 54 children with newly diagnosed primary NE did not report daytime LUTS. Fifteen children (27.8%) had a reduced bladder capacity and were prescribed anticholinergic or beta-3 agonist. After three months of medication, MVV significantly increased from 117.5 mL to 183.3 mL (P = 0.010), but frequency showed no significant change from 5.7 to 4.9 times a day. Improvement in enuresis occurred completely and partially in 41.7% and 25% of participants, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of reduced bladder capacity without daytime voiding symptoms was relatively high as 27.8% in children newly diagnosed with primary NE. In primary MSNE, reduced bladder capacity should be investigated using a frequency-volume chart in addition to thorough history taking or questionnaires. Anticholinergics or beta-3 agonists for MSNE with reduced bladder capacity are effective at increasing the bladder capacity of these patients.

Urinary incontinence during laughter in children: Is it giggle incontinence?

AIM

Giggle incontinence is a distinct entity of childhood daytime urinary incontinence (DUI), where children wet themselves only when they laugh. The prevalence of true giggle incontinence is unknown, with confusion about the diagnosis of urinary incontinence occurring during laughter and true giggle incontinence. The aim of the study is to improve our understanding of urinary incontinence during laughter by comparing those children with children who have DUI at other times, but not with laughter.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective medical record review of children with DUI who presented to a tertiary continence service from 2017 to 2018, collecting data on age, gender, associated comorbidities, lower urinary tract symptoms, investigations, provisional diagnosis at first visit and initial treatment responses. Differences between those with DUI occurring during laughter and those with DUI at other times, but not with laughter were compared using standard statistical methods.

RESULTS

Of the 277 new patients seen during the study period, 140 (51%) had DUI, and of these, 72 (51%) had DUI occurring during laughter. Children with incontinence occurring during laughter were more likely to have incontinence associated with other activities. One child had giggle incontinence according to the International Children's Continence Society's definition. Four other children were referred specifically for urinary incontinence associated with laughter, with the term giggle incontinence sometimes used by the referring doctor.

CONCLUSION

Children with DUI commonly experience incontinence during laughter, but true giggle incontinence is rare. Correct diagnosis is essential as it directs treatment.

The impact of adenotonsillectomy on monosymptomatic primary nocturnal enuresis in children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Objectives:

To analyze the outcome of monosymptomatic primary nocturnal enuresis (MPNE) after adenotonsillectomy in children with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

Methods:

The study included 74 MPNE children with OSAS qualified for an adenotonsillectomy procedure. MPNE was assessed prior to surgical procedure as well as 3 and 6 months after surgery. In addition to polysomnographic parameters, serum antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels were measured preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively.

Results:

The mean age was 9.8 years and the mean number of nocturnal wetting weekly was 4.1. Thirty-eight percent of patients had family history of MPNE. All the patients underwent a successful adenotonsillectomy. Nocturnal enuresis was still reported in 18% of children 6 months after adenotonsillectomy. An increased risk of MPNE was significantly demonstrated in children with high obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (O-AHI), high oxygen desaturation index (ODI), high frequent nocturnal enuresis and family history. After surgery, ADH levels were significantly lower, whereas BNP levels were significantly higher in non-resolution children. Univariate analysis showed that higher O-AHI, higher ODI, severe enuresis, low serum ADH and higher serum BNP levels were indicative of persistent nocturnal enuresis. Multivariate analysis showed that higher ODI and higher BNP levels are independent prognostic markers for MPNE.

Conclusions:

Adenotonsillectomy in MPNE children with OSAS is an effective treatment for resolution of MPNE. Also, higher ODI caused by apnea and elevated serum BNP levels are the most important factors affecting the outcome of MPNE patients.

Level of evidence:

Not applicable for this multicentre audit.

Evaluating nocturnal polyuria in Japanese children with nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to assess whether enuretic Japanese patients with nocturnal polyuria (NP) who met Hoashi's criteria (6-9 years: ≥200 mL; 10 years and older: ≥250 mL) met the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS; expected bladder capacity × 130%) and Rittig's criteria for nocturnal polyuria (>[age+9] × 20 mL). We also compared the effectiveness of 1-desamino-8-d-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) with the three criteria.

METHODS

Fifty-four patients who had NP with normal bladder capacity were enrolled: 36 boys (67%); median age, 8 (interquartile range: 7-9). We compared the diagnostic differences between the Hoashi's criteria and international standards (ICCS and Rittig's) for NP and the short-term effects of DDAVP. The patients received DDAVP for 8 weeks; we evaluated the association between each evaluation method and the effects of therapy.

RESULTS

Only 17% of the patients met both Hoashi's and ICCS criteria, whereas 26% met both Hoashi's and Rittig's criteria. The therapeutic effect of DDAVP did not differ significantly between these two groups: there was an effective rate of 73% (Hoashi's criteria) versus 50% (ICCS criteria), P = 0.19, and an effective rate of 71% (Hoashi's criteria) versus 62% (Rittig's criteria), P = 0.84.

CONCLUSIONS

Hoashi's criteria are widely used but, according to both the ICCS and Rittig's criteria, approximately 80% of the patients did not fulfill the definition of NP. However, 8 weeks after the DDAVP treatment began, no significant difference was observed in the therapeutic effect of DDAVP according to each set of criteria. The definition of NP should account for the physical disparities between Japanese people and Westerners.

Dissatisfaction with school toilets is associated with bladder and bowel dysfunction

Poor quality of school toilets is reportedly an issue in many countries and has been correlated with toilet refusal in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between perceived school toilet quality, behaviour regarding toilet visits, and symptoms of bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD). Pupils in Danish schools were invited to complete online questionnaires regarding toilet behaviour, perception of school toilet standards/quality, and symptoms of BBD. Teachers at the same schools were asked about the quality of the toilets. We recruited 19,577 children from 252 different schools. More than half of the children (50% boys and 60% girls) were dissatisfied with the toilet facilities. One-fourth of the children (28% of girls, 23% of boys) reported avoiding the use of school toilets. We found a strong correlation between being dissatisfied with school toilets, toilet avoidance, and symptoms of BBD.Conclusion: The majority of Danish children are unhappy with their school toilet facilities. Symptoms of BBD are associated with subjective toilet dissatisfaction and toilet visit postponement. Because children spend a significant part of their day at school, access to satisfactory toilet facilities is of utmost importance for their well-being. What is Known • Bladder and bowel dysfunction is common in childhood with urinary incontinence, constipation, and faecal incontinence being cardinal symptoms. • Behaviour regarding toilet visits contributes to the aetiology, and we know that toilet avoidance can lead to abnormal bladder and bowel function. What is New • Most children are not satisfied with their school toilets, and many avoid toilet visits. • Dissatisfaction with the school toilets is related to toilet avoidance and bladder and bowel dysfunction in school children regardless of age and gender.

Treating enuresis in children with neurodevelopmental disorders using bell and pad alarm

OBJECTIVE

There is a high prevalence of enuresis in children with neurodevelopmental disorders, yet research regarding treatment for this group has been neglected. The efficacy of treatment using bell and pad alarm therapy is not well reported especially in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. This study sought to compare the treatment efficacy of practitioner-assisted bell-and-pad enuresis alarm therapy for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and typically developing children.

STUDY DESIGN

This study utilized the data of Apos et al. (2018), a retrospective medical record audit collected from multiple clinical settings across Australia. A total of 2986 patient records (3659 treatment records) were included. The participants were children aged 5-16 years, who were diagnosed with enuresis. Children with a neurodevelopmental disorder (n = 158) had a clinical diagnosis present in the medical history of attention deficit disorder, autism spectrum disorder, or intellectual disability. Children who indicated any of the following comorbidities were excluded: cerebral palsy, brain injury, malformation of the renal tract, previous bladder or renal surgery, spinal cord malformation, spinal cord trauma or tumor, or a neurodegenerative disorder. Treatment success was defined as ≥ 14 dry nights. Relapse was defined as one symptom recurrence per month post-interruption of treatment, as defined by the International Children's Continence Society definitions.

RESULTS

The success rate for children with neurodevelopmental disorders was 62% and typically developing children was 78%. There was no significant difference between the number of treatments received or relapse rates by those children with a neurodevelopmental disorder and typically developing children. The summary figure shows the percentage of children in each group after their first treatment who were successful (success defined as dry for ≥ 14 days), who succeeded (dry for ≥ 14 days) but then relapsed and those who showed no success. The percentage of children with no NDD who were successfully dry after the first treatment was 78%. Children with ID had success after the first treatment of 59%, the lowest of all groups analyzed.

CONCLUSION

The type of alarm therapy reported in this study is effective for treating enuresis in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.

Evaluation of the efficacies of methylphenidate and biofeedback treatments in giggle incontinence: One-year follow-up study

INTRODUCTION

Giggle incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence (GI) that occurs with laughing due to the urinary bladder's involuntary contraction leading to complete emptying. There are studies in the literature that biofeedback therapy or methylphenidate can be effective in the treatment of this condition.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the efficacies of biofeedback therapy and methylphenidate treatment in patients with GI.

STUDY DESIGN

In this non-randomized observational study, children aged 5-18 years who were diagnosed with GI between January 2014 and December 2019 were included in the study. Patients who were treated by biofeedback were assigned to Group 1, while patients who were given methylphenidate treatment were placed in Group 2. Patients in Group 1 were treated with biofeedback, which was planned once a week for four weeks and once a month for the following two months. They continued their pelvic floor strengthening exercises at home for the following nine months. Patients in Group 2 were prescribed 5 mg oral methylphenidate qid for three months. Patients in both groups were followed up with 3-month intervals within a year. The results were classified as complete response, partial response or no response as per The International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) recommendations.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 38 patients with GI. Mean age of the patients was 7.7 (5-11). Among these patients, 31 (81.5%) were female, while 7 (18.4%) were male. Two groups were similar regarding mean patient age and gender distribution. There was no difference between the two groups regarding treatment responses evaluated during the 1st, 3rd, and 6th-month outpatient clinic encounters (p > 0.05). However, treatment responses assessed during the 12th-month outpatient clinic encounter revealed 15 (94.1%) patients with complete response in Group 1, while there were 10 (55.6%) patients who showed complete response in Group 2, with a significant difference (p = 0.03).

DISCUSSION

Our study showed that treatment responses were reduced after discontinuation of methylphenidate. We achieved high complete response rates in the first, third, sixth, and twelfth-month assessments by biofeedback treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Significantly more favorable treatment outcomes were achieved with biofeedback therapy than methylphenidate treatment after completion of 1-year. Multi-center, randomized studies are needed to evaluate efficacy and safety.

Relationship between maximum voided volume obtained by bladder diary compared to contemporaneous uroflowmetry in men and women

INTRODUCTION

The 24-hour bladder diary is considered to be the gold standard for evaluating maximum voided volume (MVV). However, we observed that patients often have a greater MVV during office uroflowmetry than that seen in the bladder diary. The purpose of this study is to compare these two non-invasive methods by which MVV can be determined - at the time of uroflowmetry (Q-MVV), or by 24hour bladder diary (BD-MVV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was an Institutional Review Board approved retrospective study of patients evaluated for LUTS who completed a 24hour bladder diary and contemporaneous uroflowmetry. For Q-MVV, the patient was instructed to wait to void until their bladder felt full. Sample means were compared, and Pearson's correlations were calculated between the Q-MVV and BD-MVV data across the total sample, women, and men.

RESULTS

Seven hundred seventy one patients with LUTS completed bladder diaries. Of these, 400 patients, 205 women and 195 men, had contemporaneous Q-MVV. Mean BD-MVV was greater than mean Q-MVV. However, Q-MVV was larger in a sizable minority of patients. There was a weak correlation between BD-MVV and Q-MVV. Furthermore, there was a difference ≥50% between Q-MVV and BD-MVV in 165 patients (41%).

CONCLUSIONS

The data suggest that there is a difference between the two measurement tools, and that the BD-MVV was greater than Q-MVV. For a more reliable assessment of MVV, this study suggests that both Q-MVV and BD-MVV should be assessed and that the larger of the two values is a more reliable assessment of MVV.

An Allergic Risk Factor Analysis of Extraordinary Daytime Only Urinary Frequency in Children

Objective

This study aims to investigate the risk factors of extraordinary daytime only urinary frequency (EDOUF) and propose a form of clinical treatment.

Methods

Correlation and binary logistic regression analyses were carried out on the medical records of children with EDOUF, including their history of eczema, urticaria, allergic rhinitis or allergic cough, and pruritus (eye rubbing, etc.).

Results

A total of 266 children with EDOUF, 127 boys and 139 girls, were enrolled in the present study; their average age was 5.60 ± 2.04 years. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk factors of EDOUF in children were eczema (odds ratio [OR] = 8.393), allergic rhinitis or allergic cough (OR = 4.459), pruritus (eye rubbing, etc.; OR = 3.879), and elevated total serum IgE level (OR = 7.927). The efficacy rate of oral administration of antihistamine (desloratadine) was 89.1%.

Conclusion

Systemic or local allergic conditions, such as eczema, allergic rhinitis or allergic cough, and pruritus (including eye rubbing), and elevated total serum IgE level, are risk factors for the occurrence of EDOUF in children. The oral administration of antihistamine (desloratadine) can alleviate the symptoms.

Frequency-specific alterations of the resting-state BOLD signals in nocturnal enuresis: an fMRI Study

Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging studies of nocturnal enuresis have focused primarily on regional metrics in the blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) signal ranging from 0.01 to 0.08 Hz. However, it remains unclear how local metrics show in sub-frequency band. 129 children with nocturnal enuresis (NE) and 37 healthy controls were included in this study. The patients were diagnosed by the pediatricians in Shanghai Children's Medical Center affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, according to the criteria from International Children's Continence Society (ICCS). Questionnaires were used to evaluate the symptoms of enuresis and completed by the participants. In this study, fALFF, ReHo and PerAF were calculated within five different frequency bands: typical band (0.01-0.08 Hz), slow-5 (0.01-0.027 Hz), slow-4 (0.027-0.073 Hz), slow-3 (0.073-0.198 Hz), and slow-2 (0.198-0.25 Hz). In the typical band, ReHo increased in the left insula and the right thalamus, while fALFF decreased in the right insula in children with NE. Besides, PerAF was increased in the right middle temporal gyrus in these children. The results regarding ReHo, fALFF and PerAF in the typical band was similar to those in slow-5 band, respectively. A correlation was found between the PerAF value of the right middle temporal gyrus and scores of the urinary intention-related wakefulness. Results in other bands were either negative or in white matter. NE children might have abnormal intrinsic neural oscillations mainly on slow-5 bands.

Influence of constipation on enuresis

INTRODUCTION

Constipation has classically been considered as a risk factor of enuresis, although there are increasingly more publications that report a similar prevalence of constipation in both enuretics and non-enuretics.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the influence of constipation in monosymptomatic and non-monosymptomatic enuresis, and to find out the prevalence of the three disorders, as well as the lower urinary tract dysfunction and bladder-bowel dysfunction in the population.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

A cross-sectional observational prevalence study on a representative population sample of 5-9 year-old school boys and girls of Galicia, Spain. A questionnaire was completed in the schools on urinary and bowel habits, which included questions from the Paediatric Lower Urinary Tract Scoring System (PLUTSS) diagnostic questionnaire and grading of the lower urinary tract dysfunctions. The enuresis was diagnosed using the International Children's Continence Society (ICSS), and if it was also associated with diurnal symptoms, it was also classified as non-monosymptomatic enuresis. The constipation was evaluated using the Rome III criteria and the adapted Bristol stool scale.

RESULTS

A total of 772 questionnaires were included in the study. The prevalence of constipation was 20% and that of enuresis was 9.1% (62.9% monosymptomatic enuresis and 37.1% non-monosymptomatic), with the prevalence of bladder-bowel dysfunction being 5.2%. It was observed that constipation had no influence on the presence of monosymptomatic enuresis, but it did have an influence on non-monosymptomatic enuresis and lower urinary tract dysfunctions, where it was a significant risk factor.

CONCLUSIONS

The differential diagnosis between monosymptomatic and non-monosymptomatic enuresis is essential in the initial evaluation of the patient with enuresis, since the therapeutic management and the characteristics of both disorders are different, with constipation only being a risk factor in cases of non-monosymptomatic enuresis.

Clinical Observation of the Correlation Between Overactive Bladder and Atopic Constitution in Children

Objective: The present study aimed to analyze the risk factors correlated with overactive bladder (OAB), observe the effects of desloratadine in the treatment of OAB, and explore the correlation between OAB and atopic constitution in children. Methods: Correlation and binary logistic regression analysis of the medical data from 447 children clinically diagnosed with OAB from June 2019 to June 2020 were conducted. The data included a history of urticaria, eczema, itchy skin, and allergic rhinitis or allergic cough. The OABSS scores before and after treatment with desloratadine were compared to evaluate the effectiveness of desloratadine for OAB. Results: The risk factors for OAB in children included eczema, allergic rhinitis or allergic cough, itchy skin, and the levels of total blood IgE. Desloratadine was 96.5% effective in treating cases with risk factors including eczema, allergic rhinitis or allergic cough, and itchy skin. There existed statistical significance in the difference in OABSS scores before and after the treatment of desloratadine (P < 0.05). Conclusion: OAB in children was correlated with atopic manifestations such as eczema, itchy skin, allergic rhinitis, or allergic cough. Desloratadine was safe and effective in the treatment of OAB in children with atopic manifestations.

School Toileting Environment, Bullying, and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in a Population of Adolescent and Young Adult Girls: Preventing Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Consortium Analysis of Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether the school toilet environment at age 13, including bullying at toilets, is associated with female lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) at ages 13 and 19, as little is known about the association among school toilet environment, voiding behaviors, and LUTS in adolescent girls.

METHODS

The sample comprised 3962 female participants from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. At age 13, participants reported on 7 school toilet environment characteristics and a range of LUTS items. At age 19, participants completed the Bristol Female Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms questionnaire.

RESULTS

All toilet environmental factors were associated with at least 1 LUTS outcome at age 13. Holding behavior was associated with all school toilet environmental factors, with odds ratios ranging from 1.36 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.05, 1.76) for dirty toilets to 2.38 (95% CI: 1.60, 3.52) for feeling bullied at toilets. Bullying was associated with all daytime LUTS symptoms and nocturia; odds ratios ranged from 1.60 (95% CI: 1.04, 2.07) for nocturia to 2.90 (95% CI: 1.77, 4.75) for urgency. Associations between age 13 school toilets and age 19 LUTS were in the same direction as age 13 LUTS.

CONCLUSION

This is the first examination of associations between school toilets and LUTS. Toileting environments were cross-sectionally associated with LUTS in adolescent girls. While further work is needed to determine whether these associations are causal, school toilet environments are modifiable and thus a promising target for LUTS prevention.

Parasacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in children with overactive bladder: comparison between sessions administered two and three times weekly

Purpose:

This study compares the results achieved following parasacral TENS administered using two different weekly schedules.

Materials and Methods:

Children of at least four years of age with a diagnosis of pure overactive bladder were included in this randomized clinical trial and treated with parasacral TENS (2 versus 3 sessions per week). All the participants also underwent standard urotherapy.

Results:

Sixteen children were included in the twice-weekly group and eighteen in the three times weekly group. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups with respect to sex; however, there was a difference in age. There were no significant differences regarding complete resolution of urinary symptoms, with 8 children (50%) in the twice-weekly group and 11 children (61%) in the three times weekly group having their symptoms completely resolved (p=0.73). There was a significant difference in the DVSS score in both groups following TENS treatment compared to baseline (p=0.0001 for both groups), but not between groups. Evaluation of the bladder diary showed no difference between the groups before or after treatment.

Conclusion:

For children with overactive bladder who are unable to undergo parasacral TENS treatment three times weekly, the method can be administered successfully at twice-weekly sessions.

Management of neurogenic bladder dysfunction in children update and recommendations on medical treatment

INTRODUCTION

Defective closure of the neural tube affects different systems and generates sequelae, such as neurogenic bladder (NB). Myelomeningocele (MMC) represents the most frequent and most severe cause of NB in children. Damage of the renal parenchyma in children with NB acquired in postnatal stages is preventable given adequate evaluation, follow-up and proactive management. The aim of this document is to update issues on medical management of neurogenic bladder in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five Pediatric Urologists joined a group of experts and reviewed all important issues on "Spina Bifida, Neurogenic Bladder in Children" and elaborated a draft of the document. All the members of the group focused on the same system of classification of the levels of evidence (GRADE system) in order to assess the literature and the recommendations. During the year 2020 the panel of experts has met virtually to review, discuss and write a consensus document.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The panel addressed recommendations on up to date choice of diagnosis evaluation and therapies. Clean intermittent catheterization (CIC) should be implemented during the first days of life, and antimuscarinic drugs should be indicated upon results of urodynamic studies. When the patient becomes refractory to first-line therapy, receptor-selective pharmacotherapy is available nowadays, which leads to a reduction in reconstructive procedures, such as augmentation cystoplasty.

Clinical efficacy of transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) versus sham therapy (part I) and TTNS versus percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) (part II) on the short term in children with the idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome: protocol for part I of the twofold double-blinded randomized controlled TaPaS trial

Background

Transcutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (TTNS) and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) are effective and safe therapies for overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome in adults. However, few randomized sham-controlled trials have been conducted in a pediatric population. To our knowledge, both therapies never have been compared in children.

Aim

The aim of the complete study is twofold: (1) to assess the efficacy of TTNS therapy on bladder symptoms after 12 weeks of treatment in a pediatric population with idiopathic overactive bladder syndrome (iOAB) and/or nocturnal enuresis (part I) and (2) to assess the effect of TTNS compared to PTNS (part II). In this article, we aim to present the protocol of the first part of the TaPaS trial (TTNS, PTNS, sham therapy).

Methods

Part I of the TaPaS trial is set up as a single-center randomized-controlled trial. Children, aged from 5 to 12 years with iOAB and/or nocturnal enuresis, are assigned to two groups by computer-generated randomization: TTNS therapy (intervention) and sham therapy (control). The primary outcome is the percentage difference in average voided volume (AVV) between baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment. Secondary endpoints are the percentage difference in supervoid volumes, number of urinary incontinence episodes/24 h and in voiding frequency, the difference in parent reported outcomes between baseline and after 12 weeks of treatment, and the duration of clinical response.

Discussion

We hypothesize that TTNS is a non-inferior treatment for iOAB in children compared to PTNS therapy. Since literature is inconclusive about the efficacy of TTNS in a pediatric population, a sham-controlled RCT on TTNS will be conducted (part I). A protocol for a prospective randomized sham-controlled trial has been developed. Enrolment has started in November 2018. Study completion of part I is expected by August 2021.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT 04256876. Retrospectively registered on February 5, 2020.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-021-05117-8.

Role of urodynamics in male patients of high-anorectal malformations: a prospective study

PURPOSE

Association of spinal or vertebral anomalies and the iatrogenic denervation during surgical correction of anorectal malformation patients especially in boys can lead to neurogenic bladder inthese subset of patients. The paucity of literature with regard to urodynamic studies focusing exclusively in male children with high-anorectal malformations (HARM) lead us to analyze the urodynamic changes. The objective was to study urodynamic profile in male patients who have undergone surgery for anorectal malformation.

METHODS

Male high-anorectal malformation patients who had completed all the stages of repair were prospective studied. Following the basic work up, all patients based on the urodynamics were categorized into 2 groups as safe or unsafe bladders. Unsafe bladder was defined as detrusor pressure > 40 cm (high detrusor pressure) or pressure variability of 15 cm of water (detrusor overactivity) or significant post-void residue. MRI was limited to patients with only abnormal urodynamics to rule out spinal causes of neurogenic bladder and due to financial constraints, it could not be offered to all patients.

RESULTS

41 HARM meet the exclusion criteria. All patients were asymptomatic with none having history of urinary tract infections. Ultrasound showed bladder wall thickening in 31.7% patients. UDS revealed reduction in bladder capacity and compliance was noted in 31.7% and 30% patients, respectively. Elevated detrusor pressures (> 40 cm of water) were noted in 10% (4/41), detrusor overactivity with concomitant elevated detrusor pressures in 19.5% (8/41) and normal UDS in 70% (29/41). 13 patients (31.7%) had abnormal cystometric parameters with 12(30%) having unsafe bladders. MRI confirmed sacral agenesis in 1 patient with unsafe bladder.

CONCLUSION

Urodynamics can demonstrate occult neurovesical dysfunction in patients with HARM. This would help in early renal protective therapy and prevent the burden of long-term sequelae of neurovesical dysfunction in HARM patients.

Characteristics Among Premenarchal Girls With Lichen Sclerosus

OBJECTIVES

Lichen sclerosus (LS), a chronic inflammatory dermatosis localized in the anogenital region, is known to be associated with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in postmenopausal women; however, there is a paucity of data on prepubertal girls. We sought to characterize the relationship between LS, LUTS, and constipation among premenarchal girls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of premenarchal girls presenting at the pediatric adolescent gynecology and pediatric urology clinics at our institution diagnosed with vulvar LS during a 4-year period. Demographics, clinical presentation, time from onset of urinary and/or bowel symptoms to LS diagnosis, and treatment response were assessed. Analysis was completed using median, range, and nonparametric statistical analysis where appropriate.

RESULTS

Nineteen premenarchal girls with LS met inclusion criteria. The median age at LS diagnosis was 6.2 years (range = 3.3-13.3 yrs). Most girls (12/19, 63.2%) presented with LUTS during LS evaluation, and 11 (57.9%) of 19 patients had constipation. Pruritus and hypopigmentation were the most frequently encountered LS symptom and sign, respectively. Fourteen (73.7%) of the 19 girls had resolution/improvement of LS symptoms after LS treatment. Of the 12 patients with LUTS, 7 (58.3%) had resolution/improvement of LUTS symptoms, 3 (25.0%) had unchanged voiding symptoms, and 2 (16.7%) had unknown changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Although further studies are needed to better characterize the relationship between LUTS, constipation, and LS, our findings suggest that premenarchal subjects presenting with LUTS should be assessed for LS. Likewise, patients presenting with LS should be assessed for LUTS and constipation.

Efficacy and tolerability of mirabegron compared with solifenacin for children with idiopathic overactive bladder: A preliminary study

Purpose

To compare the efficacy and tolerability of mirabegron and solifenacin in pediatric patients with idiopathic overactive bladder (OAB) and to identify factors affecting OAB symptom improvement after treatment.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 103 patients (5–15 years old) who visited our hospital with OAB symptoms between July 2017 and March 2019. All participants had received solifenacin or mirabegron. Those who had secondary OAB or who did not complete the frequency-volume chart either before or after treatment were excluded. The age-adjusted bladder capacity ratio was used to evaluate bladder capacity. Efficacy was assessed on the basis of patient reports and changes in the frequency-volume chart, and ≥90% reduction was regarded as “responding to medication.” Tolerability was assessed by obtaining reports from patients about the adverse effects of the drug.

Results

After the exclusion of 58 patients, 45 patients (29 in solifenacin-group and 16 in mirabegron-group) were included in the primary analysis. The age-adjusted bladder capacity ratio increased from 0.71 to 0.96 (p<0.001) and from 0.57 to 0.97 (p=0.002) after solifenacin and mirabegron use, respectively. Decreased bladder capacity before medication was associated with responding to medication (odds ratio, 7.41; p=0.044). There was no significant difference in efficacy between the two drugs. Drug-induced adverse effects were reported in only 3 (10.3%) of the solifenacin-treated patients.

Conclusions

Mirabegron showed comparable efficacy to solifenacin in pediatric patients with idiopathic OAB. Additionally, only few adverse effects were reported, suggesting that mirabegron can be a safe alternative for the treatment of idiopathic pediatric OAB.

Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Network: Improving the Management of Pediatric Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction

Lower urinary tract symptoms with constipation characterize bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD). Due to high referral volumes to hospital pediatric urology clinics and time-consuming appointments, wait times are prolonged. Initial management consists of behavioral modification strategies that could be accomplished by community pediatricians. We aimed to create a network of community pediatricians trained in BBD (BBDN) management and assess its impact on care.

METHODS

We distributed a survey to pediatricians, and those interested attended training consisting of lectures and clinical shadowing. Patients referred to a hospital pediatric urology clinic were triaged to the BBDN and completed the dysfunctional voiding symptom score and satisfaction surveys at baseline and follow-up. The Bristol stool chart was used to assess constipation. Results were compared between BBDN and hospital clinic patients.

RESULTS

Surveyed pediatricians (n = 100) most commonly managed BBD with PEG3350 and dietary changes and were less likely to recommend bladder retraining strategies. Baseline characteristics were similar in BBDN (n = 100) and hospital clinic patients (n = 23). Both groups had similar improvements in dysfunctional voiding symptom score from baseline to follow-up (10.1 ± 4.2 to 5.6 ± 3.3, P = 0.01, versus 10.1 ± 4.2 to 7.8 ± 4.5, P = 0.02). BBDN patients waited less time for their follow-up visit with 56 (28-70) days versus 94.5 (85-109) days for hospital clinic patients (P < 0.001). Both groups demonstrated high familial satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Community pediatricians may require more knowledge of management strategies for BBD. Our pilot study demonstrates that implementing a BBDN is feasible, results in shorter wait times, and similar improvement in symptoms and patient satisfaction than a hospital pediatric urology clinic.

Preoperative Bladder Bowel Dysfunction Is the Most Important Predictive Factor for Postoperative Urinary Retention After Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Ureteral Reimplantation via An Extravesical Approach: A Multi-Center Study

Introduction: Postoperative acute urinary retention (pAUR) is a known occurrence after robot-assisted laparoscopic ureteral reimplantation via an extravesical approach (RALUR-EV). We hypothesized that the risk factor of pAUR after RALUR-EV might be similar to that of pAUR after open reimplantation. We aimed at performing a retrospective multi-institutional study to evaluate the risk factors for pAUR after RALUR-EV. Materials and Methods: Perioperative data collected from two tertiary referral hospitals included demographics and perioperative variables such as bladder bowel dysfunction (BBD) status, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) grade, and laterality. pAUR was defined as the need for urethral catheter replacement after removal of the initial postoperative catheter. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for pAUR. Results: A total of 117 patients with 174 renal units from the 2 hospitals were enrolled in this study. The median age at the time of surgery was 5 (0.3-19) years. Bilateral RALUR-EV was performed in 57 (48.7%) cases. pAUR rate was 3.4% in all patients and 7.0% in 57 patients with bilateral VUR. All four cases of pAUR occurred after bilateral surgery. Univariate analysis showed age (p = 0.037), weight (p = 0.039), height (p = 0.040), and bilaterality (p = 0.037) as risk factors of pAUR. In a multivariate analysis, BBD was the only significant risk factor of pAUR (p = 0.037). Conclusion: Urinary retention after RALUR-EV occurred less frequently when compared with the previously reported open surgery series. pAUR was seen only in bilateral cases in our series. Preoperative history of BBD, but not male gender or length of surgical time, was the only risk factor of pAUR after RALUR-EV.

Functional constipation induces bladder overactivity associated with upregulations of Htr2 and Trpv2 pathways

Bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) is a common yet underdiagnosed paediatric entity that describes lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) accompanied by abnormal bowel patterns manifested as constipation and/or encopresis. LUTS usually manifest as urgency, urinary frequency, incontinence, and urinary tract infections (UTI). Despite increasing recognition of BBD as a risk factor for long-term urinary tract problems including recurrent UTI, vesicoureteral reflux, and renal scarring, the mechanisms underlying BBD have been unclear, and treatment remains empirical. We investigated how constipation affects the lower urinary tract function using a juvenile murine model of functional constipation. Following four days of functional constipation, animals developed LUTS including urinary frequency and detrusor overactivity evaluated by awake cystometry. Physiological examination of detrusor function in vitro using isolated bladder strips, demonstrated a significant increase in spontaneous contractions without affecting contractile force in response to electrical field stimulation, carbachol, and KCl. A significant upregulation of serotonin receptors, Htr2a and Htr2c, was observed in the bladders from mice with constipation, paralleled with augmented spontaneous contractions after pre-incubation of the bladder strips with 0.5 µM of serotonin. These results suggest that constipation induced detrusor overactivity and increased excitatory serotonin receptor activation in the urinary bladder, which contributes to the development of BBD.

Obesity contributes to lower urinary system voiding dysfunction in childhood

BACKGROUND

Obesity continues to be a leading public health concern in the world.

AIM

The aim of our study was to investigate the relationship between obesity, lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), and voiding dysfunction.

METHODS

The study included students aged between 6 and 16 years in Zonguldak. Anthropometric measurements were performed in 404 children using appropriate methods. The body mass index (BMI) of children was calculated. Obesity was defined as a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for age- and sex-specific percentiles of Turkish children. Non-obese children with a BMI below the 85th percentile were defined as the control group. Lower urinary tract voiding dysfunction (LUTVD) was assessed with the dysfunctional voiding and incontinence scoring system (DVISS).

RESULTS

Of the children participated in the study, 151 (37.4%) were obese and 253 (62.6%) were at a normal weight. There were no significant differences in gender and mean age between the obese and non-obese children (p = 0.81). Monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MSNE) was present in 43 children (10.6%), daytime symptoms were present in 38 children (9.4%), and voiding dysfunction was present in 34 children (8.4%) in the study. These symptoms were more common in the obese group (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, and p = 0.0001, respectively). In our survey study, we found a serious relationship between both bladder emptying symptoms and storage symptoms and obesity (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Obese children are at increased risk for enuresis and voiding dysfunction. Screening and treating obese children for the respective symptoms are significantly important for their quality of life.

[TETHERED CORD SYNDROME IN CHILDREN WITH DAYTIME INCONTINENCE]

(Introduction) In tethered cord syndrome, the lower end of the spinal cord is moored to the caudal tissue, causing various neuropathies. Bladder dysfunction often appears early. We herein evaluated children with daytime urinary incontinence in whom tethered cord syndrome was eventually diagnosed. (Method) Eighteen children (9 males and 9 females) with daytime urinary incontinence were enrolled between March 2011 and October 2017. The causes of their urinary incontinence were investigated using spinal MRI and changes in clinical symptoms before and after untethering surgery. (Results) The average age at the first visit was 6.3 years (range: 4-9 years). Urodynamic testing and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) were performed in all cases of refractory daytime incontinence, and all patients with abnormal findings on either test underwent spinal MRI. The diagnosis based on spinal MRI findings was filum lipoma in eight, occult tethered cord syndrome in four, low set conus in four, conus lipoma in one, and sacral meningeal cyst in one, patient. The average observation period after untethering surgery was 66.3 months (range: 22-116 months). All the patients achieved a cure postoperatively. Four patients were treated for nocturnal enuresis by oral medication, and three patients required urological management via clean, intermittent catheterization. (Conclusions) When treating children with daytime continence, one should consider the possibility of tethered cord syndrome, the diagnosis of which can be aided by urodynamic assessment of bladder function.

Clinical Correlation Between Overactive Bladder and Allergy in Children

BACKGROUND

The International Children's Continence Society defines overactive bladder (OAB) as a clinical syndrome characterized by urgency of urination usually accompanied by frequent urination and nocturia symptoms. This study aims to explore the correlation between overactive bladder (OAB) and allergy in children.

METHOD

The clinical characteristics of 918 patients diagnosed with OAB from January 2020 to March 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors for OAB were analyzed using logistic regression analysis, and the effect of desloratadine in the treatment of OAB was evaluated.

RESULTS

The incidence of allergic cough or allergic rhinitis in the mild OAB group was higher than the moderate-severe group. Urodynamics demonstrated that the proportion of patients with a sensitive bladder in the overactive detrusor group was significantly higher than the non-overactive detrusor group. The effective rate of treatment of OAB in patients complicated with allergies and taking desloratadine was 90.14%, which was significantly higher than in patients who were not taking desloratadine, and blood IgE level was a risk factor of ineffective treatment with desloratadine.

CONCLUSION

OAB is correlated with allergies in children, and desloratadine can effectively improve OAB symptoms.

Treatment Experience of 210 Pediatric Patients With Extraordinary Daytime Urinary Frequency: A Prospective Study

Background: Lactulose can be used to manage chronic constipation and children who are withholding their bowel movements, but no studies are available regarding lactulose to treat pediatric extraordinary daytime urinary frequency (PEDUF). To explore the benefits of different therapeutic regimens (non-drug treatment vs. oral lactulose) in patients with PEDUF. Methods: This prospective study included PEDUF patients admitted to the Pediatric Center of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University (Qingdao) from January 2015 to December 2019. The patients randomized received non-drug treatment (counseling), drug treatment (lactulose), or combination therapy. A therapeutic effect was defined by a decrease of>10% of the urination frequency. Results: A total of 210 patients were included. They were 5.9 ± 0.4 years. There were 98 boys and 112 girls. Among the 210 patients, 82.4% (173/210) of their family members reported symptoms of constipation. Among the three groups, the response rate was 61.4% (43/70) in the non-drug treatment group, 90.0% (63/70) in the drug treatment group, and 91.4% (64/70) in the combination therapy group (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: The frequency of constipation in children with PEDUF is high. The use of a laxative, like lactulose, might achieve a high therapeutic response rate in children with PEDUF, higher than counseling alone. That might represent a valuable therapeutic strategy for PEDUF.