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 role of adenotonsillectomy in the treatment of primary nocturnal enuresis in children: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) is a challenging condition for physicians, patients and families. Although the etiology remains unclear, sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and sleep apnea have been suggested to play an important role. Recent research has suggested a potential therapeutic benefit of adenotonsillectomy (T&A) and surgical management of upper airway obstruction in the treatment of PNE.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to conduct a systematic review of relevant literature to determine the effectiveness of T&A in treating children aged 2-19 years with PNE.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a systematic review using a comprehensive electronic search strategy that included PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, conference proceedings, and the gray literature up to July 2015. We included all studies of children aged 2-19 years with PNE and SDB who underwent T&A. The primary outcome was resolution of PNE following surgery. Observational studies and randomized trials were reviewed. Risk of bias assessment and meta-analyses of included studies were performed.

RESULTS

We screened 3254 citations; following title and abstract screening, 42 studies were selected for full-text screening by two independent reviewers. We included 18 studies (890 patients) in our final analysis. All studies were observational and only one included a control group. Meta-analysis of proportions of all (18) studies revealed a pooled complete resolution rate of 51% (43-60%), with significant heterogeneity among studies (I² = 82.2%). Partial resolution was seen in 20% (14-27%), with similar heterogeneity to the complete resolution group. Sensitivity analysis including only studies with a low risk of bias and with patients ≥5 years (n = 244 patients) yielded a complete resolution rate of 43% (36-49%) with minimal heterogeneity (I² = 0%; figure).

CONCLUSION

In our systematic review, T&A resulted in improvement of nocturnal enuresis in more than 60% of patients, with complete resolution rates in excess of 50%. Findings were persistent on meta-analysis focused only on studies including older patients (≥5 years) and those with short follow-up after surgery (≤3 months), which imply a higher cure rate than would be expected based on natural history alone. The limitations of this review include the lack of controlled trials, the overall quality of the evidence reviewed and the heterogeneity between included studies. The role for systematic investigation and treatment of sleep disorders in patients with PNE should be scrutinized further, since a near 50% complete resolution rate for PNE may be expected with T&A in some settings.

Anatomic findings associated with epispadias in boys: Implications for surgical management and urinary continence

INTRODUCTION

Pre-operative physical examination of male epispadias allows for classification of epispadias level as glanular (GE), penile (PE) or penopubic (PPE), and for delineation of anatomic anomalies. The incidence of associated extragenital abnormalities, such as vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), bladder neck (BN) abnormality and abnormal pubic diastasis (PD), and their impact on urinary continence has not yet been systematically studied.

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to evaluate whether the more proximal level of epispadias correlated with associated extragenital anatomic anomalies seen on initial imaging or endoscopic evaluation, and whether these pre-operative findings contributed to subsequent surgical management and impacted on achieving urinary continence. It was hypothesized that the more severe forms of epispadias may be associated with a higher frequency of associated anomalies.

STUDY DESIGN

The study was an IRB-approved, retrospective case study of all male patients treated initially for isolated epispadias at the current institution between 1994 and 2011. Data collection was achieved by chart and radiology review evaluating PD, BN appearance, presence of VUR, surgical treatment, and urinary continence.

RESULTS

A total of 26 patients were identified and divided into three groups based on appearance at physical examination: four glanular (GE), eight penile (PE), and 14 penopubic (PPE); 17 patients had an abnormal BN. Reflux was noted in nine of 20 patients who had a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), two of which had an episode of pyelonephritis. Of the 22 patients past the age of toilet training, 17 were continent (64% (9/14) penopubic, 63% (5/8) penile, and 75% (3/4) glanular).

DISCUSSION

Anatomic classification for male epispadias did not provide sufficient information regarding extragenital findings. This study provided new information regarding PD, BN appearance, presence of reflux, and ultimate urinary continence. Pubic diastasis and BN abnormalities were more frequently seen in more severe forms of epispadias, whereas VUR seemed more prevalent in less severe forms. A template for pre-operative evaluation was outlined. Limitations of the study were its retrospective design and relatively small cohort of patients, which reflected the rarity of the condition.

CONCLUSION

Based on the information generated, additional anatomic information was generated regarding boys with epispadias. This information will help guide the evaluation and the management of these patients in the future.

Enuresis Management in Children: Retrospective Clinical Audit of 2861 Cases Treated with Practitioner-Assisted Bell-and-Pad Alarm

OBJECTIVE

To establish the treatment efficacy of practitioner-assisted bell-and-pad alarm therapy in children with enuresis between the ages of 5 and 16 years by retrospective medical chart review of 2861 children in multiple clinical settings.

STUDY DESIGN

This review was conducted across 7 Australian clinical practices. The primary outcome measure was the time taken for children with either primary, secondary, monosymptomatic, or nonmonosymptomatic enuresis to be dry for 14 consecutive nights. The secondary outcome measure was to determine relapse rates, defined as 1 symptom recurrence per month post interruption of treatment. Data were analyzed by correlation and χ² test via IBM SPSS Statistics (version 22).

RESULTS

The overall success rate of the bell and pad treatment was 76%, irrespective of age. The mean treatment time to achieve dryness was 62.1 ± 30.8 days, and the relapse rate was 23%. Concurrent bowel dysfunction was associated with a slightly lower success rate (74%). Concurrent lower urinary tract symptoms were associated with a lower success rate (73%) and greater relapse (1.75 times more likely to relapse). Children with secondary enuresis had significantly greater success than those with primary enuresis (82% vs 74%).

CONCLUSION

The type of alarm therapy reported in this study is highly effective. This study will provide the basis for clinical guidelines and practice tools for clinicians, which will help to reduce variation in care pathways for alarm treatment for enuresis.

Voiding school as a treatment of daytime incontinence or enuresis: Children's experiences of the intervention

BACKGROUND

Daytime incontinence and enuresis are common problems in otherwise healthy children, and negatively influence their social lives and self-esteem. Motivation for treatment is often a real clinical problem. Children's experiences of their incontinence treatments have not been previously described.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to describe children's experiences of the Voiding School intervention as a treatment for their incontinence.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative, descriptive focus-group study with a purposive sample was conducted at a Finish university hospital in 2014. Children aged 6-12 years participated in the Voiding School at an outpatient clinic. The intervention included two 1-day group visits 2 months apart. The educational content was based on the International Children Continence Society's standards for urotherapy. The education was delivered with child-oriented teaching methods. At the end of the second visit, 19 children were interviewed in five groups. Data were analysed with inductive content analysis.

RESULTS

The children described incontinence as an embarrassing problem, which they had to hide at any cost. They had experienced bullying and social isolation because of it. Normal outpatient visits emphasized adult-to-adult communication, which made the children feel like outsiders. The children perceived the Voiding School as a nice and child-oriented experience. Making new friends was especially important to younger boys who felt that the Voiding School day was too long and issue-oriented. In the Voiding School, videos and 'learning by doing' helped the children to understand the basis of given advice, and they were able to learn new habits, which gave them control over the incontinence; this helped them to become 'the boss of the bladder'. Sharing experiences and improvements in their incontinence with their peers supported the children's self-esteem and encouraged them to do new things, such as staying overnight with friends. These experiences helped them to acquire control over the problem (Summary Figure).

DISCUSSION

According to the children's experiences, normal outpatient visits were only appointments for adults, and not very useful for children. In the Voiding School, they were respected as being the main person, and their views were listened to. The results underlined the importance of a child-oriented approach to patient education with regard to children, and provided encouragement to further develop the intervention.

CONCLUSION

Child orientation, peer support, learning by doing, and understanding the cause and effect helped children to gain control over their bladders. Based on the children's experiences, this could be achieved by a voiding school.

Predictors of outcome in children and adolescents with overactive bladder treated with parasacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation

BACKGROUND

Parasacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) has emerged as an effective treatment for overactive bladder (OAB) in view of its high success rates in improving lower urinary tract symptoms and constipation, with no direct side effects. However, the clinical characteristics associated with the outcomes remain to be established.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate potential predictors of outcome in children with OAB treated using parasacral TENS.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a prospective study of children with symptoms of isolated OAB, enrolled consecutively to the study and treated with parasacral TENS (figure). Isolated OAB was defined as the presence of urinary urgency with no signs of dysfunctional voiding. The symptoms were considered completely resolved when a patient's parents/guardians or the patients themselves reported a 100% improvement. Parasacral TENS was performed twice weekly for a total of 20 sessions of 20 min each at 10 Hz. The potential predictive factors evaluated were: sex, age, daytime incontinence, nocturia, a prior history of urinary tract infection, the presence of nocturnal enuresis, constipation and holding maneuvers.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients with a mean age of 7.8 ± 2.8 years were included in the study. Complete resolution of symptoms was achieved in 47 (56.6%). Following parasacral TENS treatment, a significant response was reported in 96.4% of cases. Of the 55 patients with nocturnal enuresis, partial resolution was achieved in 30 cases (54.5%), with a statistically significant association between nocturnal enuresis and the patient's response to treatment (p < 0.004; OR = 4.4, 95% CI 1.5-12.5). No other factor was associated with response to treatment.

DISCUSSION

To the best of our knowledge, this association between nocturnal enuresis and failure to respond to parasacral TENS treatment for lower urinary tract dysfunction has not previously been reported. The identification of factors capable of predicting therapeutic failure may allow professionals to select those specific patients who would benefit from a multimodal approach in the treatment of this pathology, which has such a significant impact on the quality of life of affected patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Nocturnal enuresis was the only symptom associated with a poor outcome following parasacral TENS treatment in children with OAB.

A workshop to promote interprofessional care

BACKGROUND

Paediatric incontinence has traditionally been managed through a discipline-specific approach by doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and psychologists. We evaluated a workshop aiming to increase health professionals' knowledge, confidence and willingness to involve other health professionals when managing paediatric incontinence.

METHODS

Our 1-day workshop focused on paediatric bedwetting, daytime incontinence, faecal incontinence and neurogenic bladder. Attendees completed surveys before and after the workshop, and 6 months later. Differences between health professionals and changes in attitudes, knowledge, confidence and experience before and after the workshop were analysed using descriptive analysis. Qualitative data analysis was undertaken using content analysis.

RESULTS

The workshop was attended by 77 clinicians (41 doctors, 19 allied health professionals and 17 nurses). Over two-thirds of respondents acknowledged having average or above average knowledge of and/or confidence in managing bedwetting, daytime urinary incontinence (DUI) and faecal incontinence, with lower baseline knowledge and confidence for neurogenic bladder. Participants who completed the initial and final surveys reported increased knowledge, improved ability to manage patients, better appreciation of the contribution of other disciplines and willingness to refer patients to other disciplines. Of those who saw patients with incontinence, most reported that the workshop had improved their management: 33/35 for bedwetting; 31/35 for DUI; 21/29 for faecal incontinence; and 16/19 for neurogenic bladder. Paediatric incontinence has traditionally been managed through a discipline-specific approach by doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and psychologists DISCUSSION: This study demonstrates that an interprofessional workshop conducted by clinicians from different health professional backgrounds increases clinicians' awareness of the roles of other disciplines and promotes the development of an interdisciplinary approach or multiprofessional collaboration, enabling a more effective, patient-centred, collaborative care model.

Lower urinary tract dysfunction in pediatric patients after ureteroneocystostomy due to vesicoureteral reflux: Long-term follow-up

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to evaluate long-term lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) in pediatric patients who underwent ureteroneocystostomy due to vesicoureteral reflux.

METHODS

The present retrospective study was performed on 61 patients. Patients were divided into 3 groups: Group 1 (n = 26), did not have LUTD; Group 2 (n = 23), had LUTD; and Group 3 (n = 12), was not toilet trained preoperatively. Patients were reassessed regarding de novo LUTD or the persistence of LUTD at least 7 years after the ureteroneocystostomy.

RESULTS

Mean patient age was 7 years (range 1-15) when ureteroneocystostomy was performed and the surgery was associated with a 92% success rate. The mean follow-up period was 10 years (range 7-12 years). Postoperative LUTD was present in 6 (23%), 12 (52%), and 1 (8.3%) patients in Groups 1, 2, and 3, respectively. The presence of LUTD before surgery and bilateral repair in the same setting were predictive risk factors for the presence of LUTD during the long-term follow-up. LUTD occurred at higher rate in Group 2 than in Groups 1 and 3 (52% vs. 23% and 8.3%, respectively; P = .015). The presence of de novo LUTD was significant in Group 1 compared with the presence of preoperative and postoperative LUTD (P = .031, Wilcoxon analysis).

CONCLUSIONS

LUTD may not resolve after a ureteroneocystostomy, and additional therapy could be necessary. Due to the probability of damage to the ureterovesical nerve and/or disturbed bladder dynamics, de novo LUTD may occur in patients with bilateral high-grade reflux without LUTD before a ureteroneocystostomy.

Long-term Outcome of 1-step Kidney Transplantation and Bladder Augmentation Procedure in Pediatric Patients

BACKGROUND

Guidelines for bladder augmentation (BA) in kidney transplantation (KT) recipients are not well-defined. In our center, simultaneous BA with KT (BA-KT) is performed. We assessed transplantation outcomes of this unique extensive procedure.

METHODS

A case-control single center retrospective study. Transplantation outcomes were compared with those of KT recipients who did not need BA.

RESULTS

Compared with 22 patients who underwent KT only, for 9 who underwent BA-KT, surgical complications and the need for revision in the early posttransplantation period were similar; early graft function was better: estimated glomerular filtration rate, 96.5 ± 17.1 versus 79.4 ± 16.6 mL/min at 0 to 6 months (P = 0.02); posttransplantation clean intermittent catheterization was more often needed: by 78% (7/9) versus 13% (3/22); and asymptomatic bacteriuria was more common: 100% versus 9% during the first 6 months (P < 0.001), 55% versus 9% (P = 0.02) and 66.6% versus 9% during the first and second years, respectively (P = 0.004). Urinary tract infection (UTI) incidence was also higher: 100% versus 23% during the first 6 months and 44% versus 9% during the second year posttransplantation. Graft function deteriorated significantly in the BA-KT group by the fifth posttransplantation year: estimated glomerular filtration rate was 47.7 ± 39.7 mL/min versus 69 ± 21.3 mL/min, with only 6 (66%) of 9 functioning grafts versus 100% in the KT only group. Causes of graft loss were noncompliance with drug therapy in 2 patients and recurrent UTIs in 2 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Excellent short-term outcome for simultaneous BA-KT is threatened by graft loss due to a high prevalence of UTIs and patient noncompliance with the demanding complex posttransplantation therapy.

Standardization of pediatric uroradiological terms: a multidisciplinary European glossary

To promote the standardization of nephro-uroradiological terms used in children, the European Society of Paediatric Radiology uroradiology taskforce wrote a detailed glossary. This work has been subsequently submitted to European experts in pediatric urology and nephrology for discussion and acceptance to improve the quality of radiological reports and communication between different clinicians involved in pediatric urology and nephrology.

The effectiveness of biofeedback therapy in managing Bladder Bowel Dysfunction in children: A systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of biofeedback therapy as a non-invasive intervention to treat Bladder Bowel Dysfunction in pediatrics.

METHODS

Six databases were searched between February 2016 and September 2016. Biofeedback studies for children aged 4-16 with idiopathic urinary or fecal incontinence were included. Articles were excluded on subjects' medical histories, study design, timeline of study, and lacking expert review. Quality was determined using Sackett's Levels of Evidence and the PEDro scale.

RESULTS

Twelve articles were included in the review. Quality of evidence was moderate, as the average PEDro score of the selected articles was 5.3. The participants' ages ranged from 4-16 years old. Studies demonstrated that a multifactorial approach consisting of biofeedback therapy and behavioral modification can be successful in resolving Bladder Bowel Dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

Biofeedback is a beneficial treatment for children with dysfunctional voiding and functional fecal incontinence. More conclusive research needs to be completed to explore the effects of biofeedback therapy treatment to make more concrete conclusions. Healthcare professionals should consider biofeedback as an alternative approach in conjunction with traditional treatments. A multidisciplinary approach is best when treating dysfunctional voiding and functional fecal incontinence in the pediatric population.

Evaluation of the effect of 3-month bladder basic advice in children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis

INTRODUCTION

Advice (BBA) into the standards of patients' care in both monosymptomatic and non-monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis. Although the idea of this recommendation was clear and reflects clinical experience, duration and efficacy have not been definitely established. Recent data have demonstrated the lack of efficacy of BBA and a fierce discussion has ensued. The present study was aimed to assess the efficacy of BBA in a group of previously untreated children with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE).

STUDY DESIGN

The study was a prospective interventional multicenter trial in a cohort of previously untreated MNE patients. Forty-nine children (36 males, 13 females, mean age 7.2 years) were included in the analysis. The treatment efficacy was assessed at the 30th, 60th, and 90th days of BBA.

RESULTS

We discovered that the mean number of wet nights decreased significantly (p < 0.001) only after 3 months of BBA from 8.9 to 5.9 episodes every 2 weeks. BBA was fully successful in 2% o the children after 30 day, 12% after 60 days, and 18% after 90 days (Figure). Partial response (by ICCS) was assessed for 8%, 20%, and 34% of the patients. We noted a relatively high rate of non-responders that decreased from 90% to 47% after 90 days. We detected no differences in BBA efficacy between children with night-time polyuria or decreased maximal voided volume. A lower number of wet nights initially predicted the response to the BBA.

DISCUSSION

Our study confirmed rather limited efficacy of BBA, similarly to previous observations, but provided more information on isolated MNE, because of a more specific study group and longer period of observation. The limitation of the study was lack of randomization.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed that in treatment-naïve children with monosymptomatic enuresis basic bladder training had a low (18%) and late effect, mostly pronounced after the third month of therapy. It seems that only if the patient presents with a favorable profile of bedwetting, occasionally and with a high maximum voided volume, it is worth maintaining BBA for a longer period of up to 3 months before initiating second-line therapy. In an unfavorable initial profile desmopressin or an alarm may be introduced much earlier.

Standardization of pediatric uroradiological terms: A multidisciplinary European glossary

To promote the standardization of nephro-uroradiological terms used in children, the European Society of Pediatric Radiology uroradiology taskforce wrote a detailed glossary. This work has been subsequently submitted to European experts in pediatric urology and nephrology for discussion and acceptance to improve the quality of radiological reports and communication among different clinicians involved in pediatric urology and nephrology.

Is urodynamic evaluation a must in all operated cases of open neural tube defects

BACKGROUND

Spina bifida is a common cause of pediatric neurogenic bladder. It causes renal failure in almost 100% of patients if the associated detrusor sphincter dyssynergia (DSD) is inadequately managed. Detrusor instability and high detrusor pressures (Figure) have been implicated as the major factors predictive of renal damage in these patients. Urodynamic studies provide early identification of "at risk" kidneys so that appropriate intervention can be made. However, the role in post-operative patients of spina bifida who have no clinical manifestations remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

To study the bladder dynamics in asymptomatic post-operative patients of spina bifida and to determine whether routine urodynamic study is justifiable.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Urodynamics was performed on 15 operated patients of spina bifida who did not have any neurological deficit and were asymptomatic.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 4.97 years. None of the patients had any urological complaints with their ultrasonography being normal. None had scars on nuclear scan. Of the 15 patients, 12 (80%) had abnormal findings on urodynamic assessment. Three patients (20%) had detrusor pressures greater than 40 cm of H₂O. One patient had significant residual urine and detrusor instability.

DISCUSSION

The use of urodynamic studies in asymptomatic patients of spina bifida remains controversial, with one school of thought advocating early invasive urodynamic testing. In contrast, some favor noninvasive sonological monitoring, reserving invasive tests only for patients with renal tract dilatation. In our subset of patients none had renal tract dilatation but three patients (20%) had "at risk" bladders. These patients would benefit from early intervention aimed at renal preservation. The study is limited by a small sample size because of the relative rarity of the patient profile included. A further multicenter study with a case-control design could conclusively indicate the role of urodynamic testing in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Patients of spina bifida, even when asymptomatic, have a high incidence of unsafe bladders. Early identification and appropriate measures can protect kidneys from long-term damage, hence urodynamic profiling is mandatory for identification of potentially high-risk bladders.

Effect of traditional Chinese and Western medicine on nocturnal enuresis in children and indicators of treatment success: Randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a common pediatric developmental disorder. Desmopressin is frequently used for NE and is an evidence-based therapy. Suoquan capsule is a Chinese medicine commonly used for treating NE in children but is poorly understood by most scholars.

METHODS

A total of 369 children with NE were randomized to receive either suoquan, desmopressin plus suoquan, desmopressin, or behavioral intervention for 2 months, and the response rates evaluated. Subsequently, the viable demographic factors that could lead to success were investigated on logistic regression analysis. Moreover, after 3 months of follow up, the relapse rate was investigated.

RESULTS

The complete response (CR) rate in the desmopressin plus suoquan group (37.5%) was higher than that in the behavioral intervention group (6.3%, P < 0.007). The desmopressin group had a lower CR rate (22.5%) and a higher non-response rate (25.0%) than the desmopressin plus suoquan group (non-response rate, 21.9%; P > 0.007). The relapse rate in the desmopressin group was significantly higher than that in the desmopressin plus suoquan group (72.2% vs. 30.6%, P < 0.007). On Multivariate analysis, treatment group, NE frequency, and age were independent predictors of CR at 2 months (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Combined traditional Chinese and Western treatment in children with NE is effective and has a low relapse rate. NE frequency, treatment method, and age are important predictive factors for CR after treatment.

Diagnostic yield of lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging requested by paediatric urology consultations

OBJECTIVES

In the historical series, the diagnostic yield of lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging to rule out occult spinal dysraphism (or occult myelodysplasia), requested by paediatric urology, ranged from 2% to 15%. The aim of this study was to define our cost-effectiveness in children with urinary symptoms and to define endpoints that increase the possibility of finding occult spinal dysraphism.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A screening was conducted on patients with urinary dysfunction for whom an magnetic resonance imaging was requested by the paediatric urology clinic, for persistent symptoms after treatment, voiding dysfunction or other clinical or urodynamic findings. We analysed clinical (UTI, daytime leaks, enuresis, voiding dysfunction, urgency, renal ultrasonography, lumbosacral radiography, history of acute urine retention, skin stigma and myalgia) and urodynamic endpoints (hyperactivity or areflexia, voiding dysfunction, interrupted pattern, accommodation value and maximum flow). A univariate analysis was conducted with SPSS 20.0.

RESULTS

We analysed 21 patients during the period 2011-2015. The median age was 6 years (3-10). Three patients (14.3%) had occult spinal dysraphism: one spinal lipoma, one filum lipomatosus and one caudal regression syndrome with channel stenosis. The endpoints with statistically significant differences were the myalgias and the history of acute urine retention (66.7% vs. 5.6%, P=.04; OR= 34; 95%CI: 1.5-781 for both endpoints).

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnostic yield of magnetic resonance imaging requested for children with urinary dysfunctions without skin stigma or neuro-orthopaedic abnormalities is low, although nonnegligible. In this group, the patients with a history of acute urine retention and muscle pain (pain, «cramps») can experience a greater diagnostic yield or positive predictive value.

Behavioral factors for predicting severity of enuresis and treatment responses in different compliance groups receiving behavioral therapy

Objective:

To investigate behavioral factors for predicting severity of nocturnal enuresis and compare response rates in different compliance groups of behavioral interventions.

Methods:

Three hundred eleven children diagnosed with nocturnal enuresis were enrolled. This study was conducted at Beijing Children’s Hospital affiliated to the Capital Medical University from September 2016 to December 2016. Correlation of severity of enuresis and behavioral factors was investigated. All patients were treated with desmopressin based on behavioral interventions. After twomonth treatment, the patients were grouped according to the compliance of behavioral therapy. Then response rates in different compliance groups were compared.

Results:

Multivariate analysis revealed stool frequency, drinking water before going to bed, awaking the child to toilet at night, and appetite were independent risk factors affecting the severity of enuresis. The complete response rate of enuresis and partial response ratein fullcompliance group are higher than thoseof partial compliance and non-compliance group(21.9% vs 11.3%, 78.1% vs 59.8%; 21.9% vs 0%, 78.1% vs 49.1%; P<0.01). The complete response rate and partial response rate of partial compliance group are higher than those of the non-compliance group (P<0.01).

Conclusions:

Stool frequency, drinking water before going to bed, awaking the child to toilet at night, and appetite are independent predictive factors affecting the severity of enuresis. Good compliance of behavioral interventions may have a crucial role for better therapeutic outcomes.

Recent advances in managing and understanding enuresis

Enuresis, particularly in children during sleep, can be a debilitating condition, affecting the quality of life of the child and his or her family. The pathophysiology of nocturnal enuresis, though not clear, revolves around the inter-related mechanisms of overactive bladder, excessive nocturnal urine production, and sleep fragmentation. The first mechanism is more related to isolated nocturnal voiding, whereas the latter two are more related to nocturnal enuresis, in which circadian variations in arginine vasopressin hormone play a key role. A successful treatment would depend upon appropriately addressing the key factors precipitating nocturnal enuresis, necessitating an accurate diagnosis. Thus, advancements in diagnostic tools and treatment options play a key role in achieving overall success. This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the pathophysiology of nocturnal enuresis, diagnostic tools, and treatment options which can be explored in the future.

Desmopressin plus anticholinergic agent in the treatment of nocturnal enuresis: A meta-analysis

The present study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of combination therapy comprising desmopressin plus anticholinergic agent compared with desmopressin alone for children with nocturnal enuresis (NE). A meta-analysis of 8 eligible studies was performed to analyze the effects of desmopressin plus anticholinergic agent combination therapy and desmopressin monotherapy in the treatment of NE in children. The overall odds ratio (OR) or standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval were calculated for full responders (FR), partial responders (PR), non-responders (NR), the change in the mean number of wet nights and adverse events. Following 1 month of treatment, efficacy analysis yielded an OR of 3.736, which suggested that the proportion of FR for patients treated with the combination therapy was higher than that for patients treated with monotherapy. Analysis of the change in the mean number of wet nights yielded an SMD of 0.719, which indicated that the change in the mean number of wet nights in the patients treated with combination therapy was greater than that in the patients treated with monotherapy. Following 3 months of treatment, the OR calculated for FR plus PR compared with NR was 2.857, indicating that the proportion of FR and PR was elevated by the combination therapy compared with desmopressin alone. The OR for adverse events was 4.074, which suggested that the combination therapy did not lead to more adverse events in the treatment of NE. Therefore, the present meta-analysis suggests that, compared with desmopressin monotherapy, a combination therapy comprising desmopressin and anticholinergic agent is more effective with equivalent safety for children with NE.

Predictors of upper tract damage in pediatric neurogenic bladder

INTRODUCTION

Upper tract damage (UTD) is a life-threatening complication of neurogenic bladder (NB). Early identification of risk factors for UTD and institution of remedial measures may probably prevent UTD. The aim was to study the predictors of UTD in children 2 years or older with NB.

METHOD

This cross-sectional, observational study over 2 years included 30 children. UTD was defined as serum creatinine of >1 mg/dL or society of fetal urology grade III-IV hydronephrosis or hydroureteronephrosis on ultrasonography or renal scars on ^99mtechnetium dimercaptosuccinic scan or subnormal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) for age. The evaluated clinical variables were age at presentation, gender, palpable bladder lump, and recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI). Bladder wall thickness (BWT), grade and laterality of vesicoureteric reflux (VUR), status of the bladder neck, post-void residue (PVR), and level and type of intraspinal lesions were also noted. Urodynamic studies were performed for functional bladder assessment. A p-value <0.05 identified the risk factors.

RESULTS

UTD was detected in 15 (50%) with serum creatinine >1 mg% (2, 6%), SFU III-IV (11, 36%), renal scars (12, 40%), and subnormal GFR in (2, 6%) patients. Clinical risk factors for UTD were delayed presentation (p = 0.034), palpable bladder lump (p ≤ 0.001; OR 38.5; CI 5.6-262.5), and recurrent UTI (p = 0.033, OR 4.125, CI 0.913-18.630). The presence of significant PVR, trabeculated bladder, spin-top urethra, and bilateral VUR were identified as radiological risk factors for UTD. Mean BWT in patients with and without UTD was 4.69 ± 1.78 mm and 2.91 ± 1.08 mm respectively. BWT predictive of UTD was 3.05 mm (Figure). The mean detrusor leak point pressure (DLPP) did not vary significantly in those with and without UTD (36.82 ± 14.74 and 29.09 ± 10.44 cmH₂O, respectively), yet 75% patients with DLPP > 40 cmH₂O had UTD (p = 0.038, OR 5.4, CI 0.84-34.84). DLPP <40 cmH₂O was associated with UTD in 35% patients.

DISCUSSION

The incidence of UTD in this series is in accordance with that reported with expectant management (40%) and is much higher than the 17% stated with proactive management. A limitation of this study is the small number of patients and heterogeneous clinical diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Delayed presentation with palpable bladder lump, recurrent UTI, increased BWT, bilateral VUR, increased PVR, and DLPP > 40 cm H₂O were identified as potential risk factors for UTD. This study highlights the significance of BWT as a predictor of UTD in NB.

Role of body mass index in school-aged children with lower urinary tract dysfunction: Does weight classification predict treatment outcome?

INTRODUCTION

Lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction comprises a large percentage of pediatric urology referrals. Childhood obesity is a major health concern, and has been associated with voiding symptoms. We assessed the impact of body mass index (BMI) on treatment outcomes of children presenting with LUT or bladder-bowel dysfunction (BBD).

STUDY DESIGN

Children aged 5-17 years diagnosed with non-neurogenic LUT dysfunction and no prior urologic diagnoses were identified. Patient demographics including BMI, lower urinary tract symptoms, constipation, medical and psychologic comorbidities, imaging, and treatment outcomes were evaluated. BMI was normalized by age and gender according to percentiles: underweight < 5th, healthy 5th to <85th, overweight 85th to <95th, and obese > 95th percentile. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of treatment response.

RESULTS

During an 18-month period, 100 children (54 girls, 46 boys) met the inclusion criteria. The mean age at diagnosis was 7.7 ± 2.4 years, and mean length of follow-up 15.3 ± 13.1 months. Sixty-nine patients were a normal weight, 22 were overweight, and nine were obese. Fifteen percent of the children had complete treatment response, 63% partial response, and 22% non-response. On univariate analysis, children with elevated BMI (p = 0.04) or history of urinary tract infection (p = 0.01) were statistically more likely to not respond to treatment. Controlling for all other variables, children with BMI > 85th percentile had 3.1 times (95% CI 1.11-8.64; p = 0.03) increased odds of treatment failure (Table).

DISCUSSION

BBD management includes implementation of a bowel program and timed voiding regimen, with additional treatment modalities tailored on the basis of the prevailing symptoms. We observed that school-aged children with a BMI ≥ 85th percentile were over three times more likely to experience treatment failure when controlling for all other patient characteristics including constipation and a history of urinary tract infection. Limitations of the study include the relatively small sample size, lack of uroflow with electromyography to confirm the presence or the absence of detrusor sphincter dyssynergia, and inconsistent anticholinergic dosing.

CONCLUSIONS

Nearly one-third of school-aged children presenting to our institution with LUT or BBD were overweight or obese when normalized for age and gender. Children with LUT dysfunction and elevated BMI are significantly less likely to experience treatment response.

A new modification of the Duckett technique for one-stage repairing urethral plate transected hypospadias: Another option for severe hypospadias?

OBJECTIVES

The study aimed to evaluate the new modification of the Duckett technique in decreasing the incidence of urethral strictures for urethral plate transected hypospadias and also explored its clinical application.

METHODS

Thirty-three patients (aged 7 months to 12 years, mean age 2.8 years) who underwent repair of primary hypospadias using the new one-stage urethroplasty were enrolled. Clinical data, including cosmetic and its complications, and uroflowmetry data were documented. Uroflowmetry data of 19 patients who underwent Duckett urethroplasty were used as a comparison.

RESULTS

The length of the urethral defect ranged from 2.5 to 5.0 cm. The postoperative follow-up was 14-30 months. Ten patients (30.3%) had fistulas; no patients had strictures or diverticula. All ten fistulas were small (<0.5 cm) and repaired with fistula repairing operation. The appearance of the penis remained satisfactory, and the meatus was located in the normal anatomic position. Among 17 patients who underwent uroflowmetry, all patients were bell-shaped or platforms, and Q _max was 7.37 ± 2.45 ml/s. Compared with 14 of 19 patients who underwent Duckett urethroplasty, the urethral function achieved with new one-stage urethroplasty was significantly better (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of strictures was dramatically lowered in patients with proximal hypospadias. Small fistulas are common complications and can be repaired easily. Based on the uroflow pattern results, the quality of neourethra and function of it were better than Duckett urethroplasty. These preliminary results suggested that the modified procedure seems to be reliable and can be a suitable option for proximal hypospadias.

Neurostimulation Therapy for Non-neurogenic Overactive Bladder in Children: A Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy and safety of neurostimulation for non-neurogenic overactive bladder in children, we conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed on August 2016. RCTs were evaluated according to the Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias assessment. Number of patients with post-treatment partial response (PR) (50%-89%), complete response (CR) (≥90%), and full response (FR) (100%) were extracted for relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Effect estimates were pooled using the Mantel-Haenszel method with random effect model if significant inter-study heterogeneity (P <.1) was noted. Subgroup analysis was performed according to each treatment setting (PROSPERO CRD42016043502).

RESULTS

Five eligible studies (245 patients) were included. Overall effect estimates showed that compared with standard urotherapy, neurostimulation demonstrated significantly better ≥50% (PR + CR + FR) response (RR = 2.8, 95% CI 1.1-7.2), but not ≥90% (CR + FR) response (RR = 8.28, 95% CI 0.65-105.92). Clinic-based neurostimulation had significantly better treatment outcomes for both ≥50% (PR + CR + FR) and ≥90% (CR + FR) responses (RR = 3.24, 95% CI 1.89-5.57; RR = 20.81, 95% CI 2.97-145.59, respectively), whereas a self-administered regimen showed no differences for both ≥50% (PR + CR + FR) and ≥90% (CR + FR) response rates between treatment groups (RR = 2.61, 95% CI 0.48-14.15; RR = 3.55, 95% CI 0.19-67.82, respectively). No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSION

Neurostimulation therapy may lead to better partial improvement of non-neurogenic overactive bladder; however, it may not render a definitive complete response. Office-based neurostimulation seems more efficacious than self-administered neurostimulation. Further RCTs are needed to compare outcomes of the 2 regimens.

Obesity and lower urinary tract dysfunction in children and adolescents: Further research into new relationships

INTRODUCTION

Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) involves faults in the filling and emptying phases of bladder function in toilet-trained children with no previous infection or any other obvious pathology. Lower urinary tract dysfunction is associated with conditions such as vesicoureteral reflux, recurrent urinary infection, behavioral alterations and decreased quality of life. The literature suggests an association between LUTD and obesity; however, the association between each individual symptom and obesity has yet to be evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between excess weight and LUTD in children and adolescents in a community-based sample.

STUDY DESIGN

This cross-sectional study included 423 children and adolescents aged 5-17 years, and randomly selected in public places and schools between May and July 2015. The participants and their mothers completed the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS) questionnaire, except for the questions on constipation and with the addition of a question on enuresis. They also completed the Rome III questionnaire, in which two positive responses defined the presence of constipation. Participants were classified as being of normal weight, overweight or obese, which was based on the BMI-for-age indicator.

RESULTS

Mean age was 9.7 years (SD 2.9), with girls comprising 50.6% of the sample and adolescents 52.5%. The prevalence of LUTD was 7.1%, with 13.5% of participants being overweight and 12.1% obese (Figure). Constipation was present in 5.9% of participants and enuresis in 10.8%. In the multivariate analysis, three factors were independently and significantly associated with a positive DVSS: age <10 years (β = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.34-1.18), constipation (β = 1.79; 95% CI: 0.88-2.70) and obesity (β = 0.89; 95% CI: 0.25-1.52).

DISCUSSION

Only bladder filling symptoms were associated with obesity. This may be explained by the fact that both obese individuals and those with emptying symptoms were shown to have activation alterations in the same brain regions. One limitation of this study was the use of questionnaires alone to diagnose LUTD and constipation.

CONCLUSION

Only the bladder-emptying symptoms of LUTD appear to be associated with obesity. This hypothesis may serve as a basis for future studies.

Examining the effectiveness of parental strategies to overcome bedwetting: an observational cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether a range of common strategies used by parents to overcome bedwetting in 7½-year-old children (including lifting, restricting drinks before bedtime, regular daytime toilet trips, rewards, showing displeasure and using protection pants) are effective in reducing the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

General community.

PARTICIPANTS

The starting sample included 1258 children (66.7% boys and 33.2% girls) who were still bedwetting at 7½ years.

OUTCOME MEASURE

Risk of bedwetting at 9½ years.

RESULTS

Using propensity score-based methods, we found that two of the parental strategies used at 7½ years were associated with an increased risk of bedwetting at 9½ years, after adjusting the model for child and family variables and other parental strategies: lifting (risk difference=0.106 (95% CI 0.009 to 0.202), ie, there is a 10.6% (0.9% to 20.2%) increase in risk of bedwetting at 9½ years among children whose parents used lifting compared with children whose parents did not use this strategy) and restricting drinks before bedtime (0.123 (0.021 to 0.226)). The effect of using the other parental strategies was in either direction (an increase or decrease in the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years), for example, showing displeasure (-0.052 (-0.214 to 0.110)). When we re-analysed the data using multivariable regression analysis, the results were mostly consistent with the propensity score-based methods.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide evidence that common strategies used to overcome bedwetting in 7½-year-olds are not effective in reducing the risk of bedwetting at 9½ years. Parents should be encouraged to seek professional advice for their child's bedwetting rather than persisting with strategies that may be ineffective.

Management of Neurogenic Bladder

This article provides a comprehensive summary of the clinical approach, investigative modalities and management of a child with neurogenic bladder disease due to myelodysplasia. It is aimed at pediatric physicians and surgeons working in developing nations. The methodologies suggested are simple and can be practised even in resource poor regions. The goal of management is avoidance of Chronic kidney disease and for this, meticulous bladder management is the key.

Primary nocturnal enuresis: Assessment and treatment at a single referral center

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of primary monosymptomatic and non-monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE and PNMNE) and associated factors in a major referral center for NE in Abu Dhabi.

METHODS

Children referred to the Paediatric Continence Clinic, between 2014 and 2016, for PNE were included in the study. Exclusion criteria were neuropathic bladder, abnormality of the bladder and bowel, urethral stenosis, neurological and psychiatric problems, non-completion of the diagnostic protocol, and follow up <6 months.

RESULTS

A total of 128 patients were included in the study: 82 boys (64.1%) and 46 girls (35.9%). A total of 42.7% of boys and 8.7% of girls had PMNE, and 57.3% of boys and 91.3% of girls had PNMNE. Constipation was present in 46% of patients. In the male PNMNE group, 74.5% had overactive bladder (OAB), 10.6%, dysfunctional voiding (DV); and 14.9%, OAB + DV. In the female PNMNE group, 35.7% had OAB; 21.4%, DV; 40.5%, OAB + DV; and 2.4%, underactive bladder. A total of 97% and 86 of children with PMNE and PNMNE, respectively, had resolution of NE. Boys had a significantly higher incidence of PMNE, and girls, of DV.

CONCLUSION

In Abu Dhabi, NE is often associated with bladder dysfunction or DV, mostly in girls, and with constipation. High intake of dry, low fiber foods, along with hot weather and the stress of city living negatively affect the incidence of fecal retention and of NE. A multimodal approach, including the treatment of constipation, led to a satisfactory resolution of PNE in almost 90% of cases.

Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire: Development, Feasibility, and Aspects of Validity and Reliability

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to develop a questionnaire evaluating the frequency of symptoms over time of concomitant childhood bladder and bowel dysfunctions (CBBDs) in 5- to 12-year-old children and to assess its feasibility and aspects of validity and reliability.

METHODS

The Childhood Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction Questionnaire (CBBDQ) was developed in phases according to COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) in cooperation with epidemiologists, pediatricians, physiotherapists (phases 1 and 5), and professional translators (phase 5): selection of items (Delphi-method), content validity (pilot), feasibility (interviews), structural validity and internal consistency (field testing), and guideline-based translation (Dutch-English). Participants were parents of children, ages 5 to 12 years (phases 2-4).

RESULTS

Parents of 1333 children (mean age 7.8 years [standard deviation 2.1]) were included. Most common were urinary incontinence (35.9%), enuresis (29.7%), and constipation/fecal incontinence (30.1%). Concomitant CBBD was seen in 74.2% of 1229 children. Originally, a 27-item CBBDQ was developed. After the pilot (48 parents) a 23-item version remained for evaluation of feasibility aspects by interviewing 56 parents. Based on 1229 completed questionnaires during field testing, the CBBDQ reduced to 18 items. Cronbach α values were 0.74 and 0.71 for bladder and bowel subscales, respectively. Feasibility and aspects of validity and reliability were satisfactory. A definitive and accepted English version of the CBBDQ is available.

CONCLUSIONS

When completed by parents, the 18-item evaluative CBBDQ appears feasible, content, and structurally valid with good internal consistency for the bladder and bowel subscales. The Dutch and English versions will be introduced clinically and subjected to further psychometric evaluation.

Clonidine may have a beneficial effect on refractory nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

Although the evidence-based treatment for nocturnal enuresis is established, nearly one-third of patients are still enuretic with desmopressin, anti-cholinergic treatment and alarm. The fourth option, imipramine, is limited because of the risk of cardiotoxicity on overdose. Clonidine, an α₂ -adrenoceptor agonist that also has noradrenergic effects like imipramine, is a new option for refractory enuresis.

METHODS

A total of 148 patients (6-14 years of age; mean, 9.1 years) with refractory enuresis under desmopressin, anti-cholinergic treatment and alarm were enrolled. The patients consisted of 100 boys and 48 girls, of whom 23 had monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and 125 had non-monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis. Clonidine 4 μg/kg/day (maximum, 75 μg/day) orally 30 min before bedtime was added and its effects were evaluated after 4 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 83 patients (56.1%) achieved partial or complete response with the additional clonidine. No significant adverse reactions were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Clonidine could be an aid for refractory enuresis, although further randomized controlled trials are needed.

Parasacral transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (PTENS) once a week for the treatment of overactive bladder in children: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Overactive bladder (OAB) is the most prevalent voiding disorder in childhood, and its main manifestation is urinary urgency. In general, urotherapy and anticholinergics are the first choices of treatment. Parasacral Transcutaneous Electrical Neural Stimulation (PTENS) was introduced as an alternative for the treatment of detrusor overactivity in children, but treatment protocols described to date require several sessions per week or long-lasting sessions, making it difficult for the child to adhere to the treatment. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of PTENS in single weekly sessions in the treatment of OAB in children.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective, randomized controlled trial included 16 children with OAB. Children were divided into two groups: CG (urotherapy and electrical stimulation placebo) and EG (urotherapy and PTENS). For both groups, therapy was delivered in 20 weekly sessions, of duration 20 min each. Placebo electrical stimulation was done in the scapular area. The children were evaluated prior to treatment (T1), at the end of the 20 sessions (T2), and 60 days after the completion of treatment (T3), with a 3-day voiding diary, visual analogue scale (VAS), Rome III diagnostic criteria, and the Bristol Scale.

RESULTS

The groups were similar in age, gender, and ethnicity. In the initial assessment, all children, in both groups, had urgency and incontinence, 50% in each group had constipation, and enuresis was present in seven children (87.5%) in the EG and six (75%) in the CG. No differences were found between the groups regarding the volumetric measurements made in the voiding diary, urinary frequency and constipation evaluated by the Rome III criteria and the Bristol Scale. Sixty days after treatment, a significant improvement was found in the EG group (p = 0.03) regarding urgency (Table), as well as an increase in dry nights in those presenting with enuresis (p = 0.03). No difference was noted regarding urinary incontinence (Table). At the end of 20 sessions and after 60 days of treatment, those responsible for the children in the EG perceived greater improvement in symptoms measured by the VAS (p = 0.05 and 0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Our preliminary results demonstrate that PTENS performed in single weekly sessions is effective in treating the bladder for symptoms of urinary urgency and enuresis, and in the perception of those responsible for the children. Further studies with larger populations are needed to corroborate these results.

Transanal irrigation is effective in functional fecal incontinence

Functional fecal incontinence (FFI) is divided into cases related to functional constipation (FC) and cases without concomitant constipation termed functional non-retentive fecal incontinence (FNRFI). Transanal irrigation (TAI) is widely used in children with neurogenic fecal incontinence but is less studied in children with functional defecation disorders. The aim was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of TAI in the treatment of FFI. A retrospective study in 72 children (mean age 9.2 ± 2.2 years, 47 males) with treatment-resistant FFI was performed. All children accepted treatment and 35% (n = 25) were titrated to daily sessions. Of the 63 children who fulfilled the Rome III criteria of constipation, 46 (73%) showed full response with complete remission of incontinence episodes. Eleven (17%) showed partial response (≥50% reduction). Of nine children with FNRFI, four (44%) showed full response whereas two (22%) showed partial response. We found no significant difference in the reduction of incontinence episodes between the children with FC (87%) and children with FNRFI (68%) (p = 0.11).

CONCLUSION

TAI is an effective, well-tolerated, and safe choice in children with FC. No clinical parameters seemed to predict response to treatment. The number of children with FNRFI was low, but TAI seemed effective in this group of children. What is Known: • Functional fecal incontinence (FFI) is a frequent, chronic condition with significant impact on children's quality of life. • Transanal irrigation (TAI) is used in children with neurogenic bowel dysfunction but less studied in children with functional defecation disorders. What is New: • TAI seems an effective, well-tolerated, and safe choice in children with FFI due to functional constipation. • Albeit the number of children with functional non-retentive fecal incontinence was low in our study, TAI seems effective also in this group of children.

Are lower urinary tract symptoms in children associated with urinary symptoms in their mothers?

BACKGROUND

The association between parents who suffered daytime incontinence as children and children who are incontinence has been reported. However, the association of lower urinary tract (LUT) dysfunction in children and urinary symptoms in mothers has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

To test the hypothesis that the children of mothers with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are more likely to have urinary symptoms.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted in two cities in Brazil. Children/adolescents of 5-17 years of age and their mothers were interviewed. Children with neurological problems, previously detected urinary tract abnormalities or who refused to sign the informed consent or assent form were excluded. The DVSS questionnaire was used to evaluate the presence of LUTS in the children and the ICIQ-OAB questionnaire was used to evaluate their mothers. Constipation in the children was investigated using the ROME III criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 827 mother-child pairs were included, with 414 of the children (50.06%) being male. Mean age was 9.1 ± 2.9 years for the children and 35.9 ± 6.5 years for the mothers. Urinary symptoms (occurring at least once or twice a week) were present in 315 children (38.1%), incontinence in 114 (13.8%) and urinary urgency in 141 (17%). Of the mothers, 378 (45.7%) had at least one LUTS, with 103 (12.5%) having incontinence and 153 (18.5%) urgency. According to the DVSS, the overall prevalence of LUT dysfunction was 9.1%. The children's DVSS scores were significantly associated with the mothers' ICIQ-OAB scores (p < 0.0010). Mothers with urinary symptoms were 2.5 times more likely to have a child with LUT dysfunction (95%CI: 1.52-4.17; p < 0.001), while mothers with overactive bladder were 2.8 times more likely to have a child with an overactive bladder (95%CI: 1.63-4.86; p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, these same characteristics were confirmed as independent predictive factors of the presence of LUT dysfunction in the child. Children of mothers with incontinence and urinary urgency were also more likely to have incontinence and urgency.

CONCLUSION

Mothers with typical symptoms of overactive bladder are more likely to have a child with LUT dysfunction. This correlation is also positive for the isolated symptoms of urinary urgency and incontinence. Independent predictive factors of the presence of LUT dysfunction in children were: being female, enuresis, constipation, and having a mother with LUTS.

Overactive bladder (OAB): A symptom in search of a disease - Its relationship to specific lower urinary tract symptoms and conditions

BACKGROUND

The ICCS defines OAB by the subjective symptom of urgency; detrusor overactivity (DO) is only implied. While no other symptom is required, OAB can also be associated with urinary frequency, decreased functional bladder capacity, and incontinence.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine how often these associated findings occur in OAB and what if any uroflow/EMG-defined conditions are found to be associated with it.

METHODS

The charts of 548 children (231M, 318F; mean age 9.0 years, range 3-20) who presented sequentially with urgency (OAB), over a period of 2 years, were reviewed paying particular attention to whether or not there was a history of frequency and/or daytime incontinence in addition to the urgency. All patients had been previously diagnosed with one of the following four lower urinary tract (LUT) conditions based on specific uroflow/EMG findings: 1. dysfunctional voiding (DV; active pelvic floor EMG during voiding); 2. idiopathic detrusor overactivity disorder (IDOD; OAB with a short EMG lag time (<2 s), and quiet pelvic floor EMG during voiding); 3. detrusor underutilization disorder (DUD; willful infrequent voiding with %EBC >125%, quiet EMG during voiding); and 4. primary bladder neck dysfunction (PBND; prolonged EMG lag time (>6 s), quiet EMG during voiding, and depressed uroflow curve). Mean %EBC was compared between patients with urgency alone and those with urgency plus other symptoms. Any association with gender was analyzed.

RESULTS

Urgency was accompanied by either frequency or daytime incontinence in 91% of the children (summary Table). Daytime incontinence was reported in 398 (72.6%) and frequency in 268 (48.9%). Mean %EBC was 80.9. Females were more likely to report daytime incontinence (76.7% vs. 66.7%, p = 0.02) and frequency was found more often in males (63.6% vs. 38.1%, p < 0.001). %EBC was less in males (70.0 vs. 88.8, p < 0.001). The majority of patients with urgency were diagnosed with IDOD (62%), while 15% had DV, 5% PBND, 3% DUD, and in 15%, the uroflow/EMG was not diagnostic.

CONCLUSIONS

%EBC was usually normal or mildly increased in OAB when urgency is the only symptom but significantly decreases with each additional LUTS. OAB is more common in girls and they tend to have a lower incidence of frequency, more incontinence, and >%EBC than boys. Because urgency in an anatomically and neurologically normal child is the only required criterion for diagnosing OAB, it must be realized that OAB can be associated with any of a number of objectively defined LUT conditions. Thus OAB appears to be a symptom, not a condition, that is often associated with other symptoms.

Monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis in pediatric patients: multidisciplinary assessment and effects of therapeutic intervention

BACKGROUND

Few studies manage patients with isolated monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE) with multidisciplinary evaluation and pre- and long-term post-intervention monitoring.

METHODS

This was a prospective study of MNE patients, aged 6-16 years, diagnosed by multidisciplinary assessment. Of the 140 initial applicants (58.6%) with MNE, 82 were included in the study and randomized for therapeutic intervention in three treatment groups, namely: alarm, desmopressin and alarm + desmopressin. Therapeutic response was evaluated 12 months after treatment withdrawal.

RESULTS

Of the 82 patients [mean age 9.5 (SD ± 2.6) years, n = 62 males (75.6%)], 91.1% had a family history of nocturnal enuresis (NE) in first-/second-degree relatives, 81.7% had constipation and 40.7% had mild-to-moderate apnea. Prior to randomization, management of constipation and urotherapy led to remission in seven of the 82 patients; 75 patients were randomized to intervention. There were 14/75 (18.7%) dropouts during the intervention, especially in the alarm group (p = 0.00). Initial complete/partial response was achieved in 56.6% of the alarm group, 70% of the desmopressin group and 64% in the combined group (p = 0.26). Continued success occurred in 70% of the alarm group, 84.2% of the desmopressin group and 100% of the combined group (p = 0.21). Recurrence occurred in 3/20 (15%) patients in the alarm group and 1/19 (5.2 %) patients of the desmopressin group. Post-intervention Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and PedsQL 4.0 scores showed significant improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

The three therapeutic modalities were effective in managing MNE with low relapse rates; the alarm group showed the highest dropout rate. Therapeutic success was associated with improvement of behavioral problems and quality of life scores.

The Swedish infant high-grade reflux trial: UTI and renal damage

INTRODUCTION

High-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children is associated with recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI) and renal damage. Breakthrough UTI despite continuous antibiotic prophylaxis (CAP) during the first years of life is a matter of concern and evokes early intervention. We investigated whether early endoscopic treatment (ET) of VUR grade 4-5 can reduce the risk of UTI recurrence and renal scarring.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, randomized, controlled, multicentre, 1-year follow-up trial comprised 77 infants, <8 months of age with VUR grade 4-5 (Table) randomized to CAP (n = 39) or ET (with prophylaxis until resolution) (n = 38). Voiding cystourethrogram, ultrasound, renal scintigraphy, and free voiding observation were performed at study entry and after 1 year. Parenchymal defects were seen in 67 (87%) children at entry, 39 (34 boys, 5 girls) of them characterized as generalized. At follow-up, renal deterioration (new scars or progress in old damaged area) and symptomatic UTIs were reported.

RESULTS

There were 27 recurrent febrile UTIs in 6 (16%) children in the ET group and in 10 (26%) in the CAP group (p = 0.43), in eight (36%) girls and eight (15%) boys (p = 0.039). Successful VUR outcome (VUR 0-2) was seen in 22 (59%) in the ET and eight (21%) in the CAP group (p = 0.0014). Multiple recurrences were only seen in patients with persistent dilating reflux at follow-up (p = 0.019). Deterioration on scintigraphy was seen in eight children (9 kidneys) with no difference between treatment groups (p = 0.48) or sex (p = 0.17). Renal deterioration was associated with high bladder capacity (BC) and large residual volume (PVR) at 1 year (p = 0.0092 and p = 0.041). Six of the eight children with renal deterioration had a recurrent UTI (p = 0.0032). Seven of nine renal units with deterioration were seen in children with persistent VUR 3-5 at follow-up. Univariable logistic regression identified female sex and high PVR as positive predictors for recurrent UTI (p = 0.039 and 0.034) and high PVR tended to predict renal deterioration (p = 0.053).

DISCUSSION

No differences between the treatment groups regarding recurrent UTI and renal deterioration could be found. Increased PVR and female sex were positive predictors for UTI recurrences. VUR grade at follow-up was correlated to UTI recurrence and renal deterioration.

CONCLUSION

This study did not show any difference between ET and CAP in reducing the risk of UTI recurrence or renal deterioration. The rate of VUR resolution was higher in the ET group and VUR grade at follow-up correlated with both UTI recurrence and renal deterioration.

The Swedish infant high-grade reflux trial: Study presentation and vesicoureteral reflux outcome

INTRODUCTION

High-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in infants is associated with congenital renal abnormalities, recurrent UTI, and bladder dysfunction. Endoscopic treatment (ET) is a well-established method in children with low to moderate reflux grades, but there is a lack of randomised controlled trials regarding the use of ET versus continuous antibiotic prophylaxis in infants with high-grade VUR.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether high-grade VUR in infants can be treated with endoscopic injection and whether ET is superior to antibiotic prophylaxis in the treatment of VUR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, randomised, controlled, multicentre, 1-year follow-up trial comprised 77 infants (55 boys, 22 girls) <8 months of age with VUR grade 4-5 (n = 30/n = 47). Of the infants, 52 (68%) had bilateral VUR. Thirty-nine were randomised to antibiotic prophylaxis and 38 to ET (with prophylaxis until resolution). Voiding cystourethrogram, ultrasound, renal scintigraphy, and free voiding observation were performed at study entry and after 1 year to evaluate VUR grade, and renal and bladder function.

RESULTS

VUR grade ≤2 was seen in 22 (59%) infants in the endoscopy group and eight (21%) in the prophylaxis group at follow-up (p = 0.0014). The success rate in the endoscopy group was 100% in unilateral grade 4, falling to 31% in bilateral grade 5 (p = 0.0094). Correspondingly, the results in the prophylaxis group were 40% in grade 4 down to 0% in bilateral grade 5 (p = 0.037) (Table). Logistic regression analyses identified ET, VUR grade 4, unilaterality, and low residual urine at baseline as positive predictors of VUR down-grading to ≤2 (area under ROC curve 0.88). In four patients with reflux resolution after one injection, dilating reflux recurred at the 1-year follow-up. One patient had a UTI possibly related to ET. In our material four patients required re-implantation, of whom one was obstructive after injection.

DISCUSSION

The opportunity to offer even small infants with high-grade VUR an alternative, minimally invasive treatment option is a great advance in paediatric urology. In this high-risk group, bilateral VUR grade 5 stands out with its poor bladder function and low chance of resolution. The recurrence rate of dilating VUR after successful ET is consistent with previous studies. The limitations are the relatively small number of patients and the short follow-up.

CONCLUSION

High-grade VUR in infants can be treated with injection therapy and the resolution rate is higher than that of prophylaxis treatment. The complication rate is low and VUR grade 4, unilaterality, and low residual urine are favourable for the resolution and down-grading of VUR.

The Swedish Infant High-grade Reflux Trial - Bladder function

INTRODUCTION

It has been suggested that infants with high-grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) have lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) that is characterised by large bladder capacity (BC) and increased post-void residual (PVR). However, most of these infants have normal or small BC in early infancy and develop large capacity during the first year of life.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to see whether LUTD development during the infant years in children with high-grade VUR could be prevented by early reflux resolution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

For early VUR intervention, endoscopic treatment (ET) was used in a randomised trial comprising 77 infants (55 boys) aged <8 months with VUR grade 4-5 (n = 30/n = 47); 39 were randomised to antibiotic prophylaxis and 38 to ET. Voiding cystourethrogram, free voiding observation (FVO) and renal scintigraphy were performed at baseline and after 1 year. Bladder capacity and PVR were obtained from FVO. LUTD was defined as a BC of ≥150% of expected and a PVR of ≥20 ml.

RESULTS

There were no differences in bladder function variables seen between the treatment groups, despite significant differences in VUR resolution. Analysing bladder function related to VUR outcome (VUR grade ≤2 vs grade >2), independent of treatment, showed that VUR grade ≤2 was associated with a smaller BC at 1 year (P = 0.050) (a tendency already seen at baseline) and a lower PVR at baseline (P = 0.010). PVR increased from baseline to 1 year (P = 0.037) in children with grade ≤2 VUR (Summary Table). The group with persistent bilateral grade 5 VUR at 1 year had more abnormal bladder variables compared with other study subjects, with a tendency of larger BC (P = 0.057), higher PVR (P = 0.0073) and more LUTD (P = 0.029) at baseline and a larger BC at 1 year (P = 0.016). In explanatory analyses, using logistic regression, a high PVR at baseline was identified as a predictor of VUR grade >2 (P = 0.046), persistent bilateral grade 5 VUR (P = 0.022), recurrent urinary tract infection (P = 0.034), and only a tendency was seen regarding new renal damage (P = 0.053).

CONCLUSION

There was no between-group difference seen in bladder function. In children with VUR resolution at follow-up, independent of treatment, BC decreased, whereas PVR increased. High PVR at baseline was a predictive factor for both non-resolution of high-grade VUR and recurrent urinary tract infection. The results suggest that LUTD cannot be prevented by early VUR resolution, but rather is an important prognostic factor for VUR outcome in both endoscopic and prophylactic treatment.

Study of behavioural disorders in children with primary enuresis

BACKGROUND

Enuresis results in behavioural disorder in children. This study investigated the behavioural disorders in children possessing primary enuresis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 100 children with primary enuresis were referred to children's hospital Khorramabad; the census method was used in this study. Data were collected using a short screening instrument for enuresis psychological problems, the reliability and validity of which have been confirmed in previous studies. First, a questionnaire was used to assess academic failure, anxiety, behavioural disorders, sleep, and psychological disorders. Results obtained were compared in terms of gender and age. Statistical analyses using inferential and descriptive statistics including Chi-square and Fisher test were employed.

RESULTS

The average age of children was 8.46 years. Sixty-six per cent of participants were male and the rest of them were female. Ninety per cent of subjects were between the age range of 1-9 years, and 10% were over 10 years old. Forty-three per cent of children suffered from anxiety disorders and 34% had sleep disorders, 4% also suffered from academic failure. Among behavioural disorders, hyperactivity and restlessness were the most common disorders, and they were significantly higher in nine boys. Headache, obsessive, and sleep disorders were more common in children above 10. There was a significant correlation between eating disorders, headache, sleep disorders, and strange movements in males, while feelings of sadness were more common in females.

CONCLUSION

Social personality development in children with enuresis can be improved by informing parents of enuresis.

Psychological and Physical Environmental Factors in the Development of Incontinence in Adults and Children: A Comprehensive Review

The aim of this review was to identify etiological environmental factors related to incontinence in children and adults. A variety of etiological environmental factors for the development of incontinence were identified. In children, these encompass stressful life events and trauma, family dysfunction, parental psychopathology, school-related stressors, toilet or "potty" training, fluid consumption habits, housing conditions, and the availability of toilets. In adults, physical exercise, obesity, working conditions, fluid intake, and the availability of toilets play a role. Intervening variables such as hormonal variations due to work shifts have also been identified as influencing the likelihood of incontinence. Current research suggests that environmental factors influence the development of incontinence in children and adults. The interactions between biological factors, the immediate environment, and intervening variables need to be explored in greater detail. Practical solutions to reduce barriers to adequate fluid intake and healthy toileting habits should be implemented in school and work settings.

Bladder and bowel dysfunction in children: An update on the diagnosis and treatment of a common, but underdiagnosed pediatric problem

Bladder and bowel dysfunction (BBD) describes a spectrum of lower urinary symptoms (LUTS) accompanied by fecal elimination issues that manifest primarily by constipation and/or encopresis. This increasingly common entity is a potential cause of significant physical and psychosocial burden for children and families. BBD is commonly associated with vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which at its extreme may lead to renal scarring and kidney failure. Additionally, BBD is frequently seen in children diagnosed with behavioural and neuropsychiatric disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Patients with concomitant BBD and neuropsychiatric disorders have less favourable treatment outcomes. Early diagnosis and treatment of BBD are critical to avoid secondary comorbidities that can adversely impact children's kidney and bladder function, and psychosocial well-being. The majority of patients will improve with urotherapy, adequate fluid intake, and constipation treatment. Pharmacological treatment must only be considered if no improvement occurs after intensive adherence to at least six months of urotherapy ± biofeedback and constipation treatment. Anticholinergics remain the mainstay of medical treatment. Selective alpha-blockers appear to be effective for improving bladder emptying in children with non-neurogenic detrusor overactivity (DO), incontinence, recurrent UTIs, and increased post-void residual (PVR) urine volumes. Alpha-1 blockers can also be used in combination with anticholinergics when overactive bladder (OAB) coexists with functional bladder outlet obstruction. Minimally invasive treatment with onabotulinumtoxinA bladder injections, and recently neurostimulation, are promising alternatives for the management of BBD refractory to behavioural and pharmacological treatment. In this review, we discuss clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, and indications for behavioural, pharmacological, and surgical treatment of BBD in children based on a thorough literature review. Expert opinion will be used when scientific evidence is unavailable.