CLINICAL PROFILE OF PAEDIATRIC PATIENTS WITH URINARY TRACT INFECTION IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
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Keywords
Urinary tract infection, Pediatrics, Clinical profile, Escherichia coli, Risk factors
Abstract
: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections in children, with varied clinical presentations and potential for long-term renal damage if untreated. Understanding the clinical profile helps in early diagnosis and management.
Objectives: To study the clinical features, laboratory findings, microbiological profile, and risk factors associated with pediatric UTIs in a tertiary care hospital.
Materials and Methods: This observational study was conducted in the department of Paediatrics at a tertiary care hospital. Our study included 100 children aged 1 month to 18 years with culture-proven UTI. Detailed demographic, clinical, laboratory, and microbiological data were collected and analyzed.
Results: Of the 100 cases, 65% were females and 35% males, with the highest prevalence in the 1–5 years age group (40%). The predominant presenting feature was fever (82%), followed by dysuria (45%), increased frequency of micturition (40%), and abdominal pain (35%). Infants commonly presented with nonspecific symptoms such as poor feeding (15%) and irritability (12%). Laboratory evaluation revealed pyuria in 80% and leukocytosis in 55% of cases. Urine culture showed Escherichia coli (70%) as the most common pathogen, followed by Klebsiella (15%), Proteus (8%), and Enterococcus (7%). Identifiable risk factors included poor perineal hygiene (15%), vesicoureteral reflux (12%), and constipation (10%).
Conclusion: UTI is more prevalent among females and in the 1–5 years age group. Fever is the most frequent symptom, but nonspecific manifestations in infants make diagnosis challenging. E. coli remains the leading pathogen. Recognition of associated risk factors such as poor hygiene, VUR, and constipation is essential for prevention and recurrence control.
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Dr. Rudra Gouda
Associate Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Karimnagar, Telangana
Dr. Dharmanand Reddy Devareddy
Assistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, Prathima Institute of Medical Sciences, Karimnagar, Telangana