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Patient case: Vesicoureteral Reflux

Discussion

A 3-year-old boy is brought to the pediatrician with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) over the past six months. The mother reports that the child has been experiencing frequent fevers, irritability, and pain during urination. She has noticed that the boy wets himself more frequently, despite being toilet-trained. Each episode of infection has been treated with antibiotics, but the infections keep returning.

On physical examination, the boy appears well-nourished but has mild abdominal tenderness. Urinalysis shows the presence of white blood cells and bacteria, confirming another UTI. Due to the recurrent infections, the pediatrician orders further tests, including a renal ultrasound and a voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG).

The imaging studies reveal moderate vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), where urine flows backward from the bladder into the ureters and kidneys. The boy is diagnosed with VUR, which has contributed to his recurrent UTIs.

The pediatrician discusses the diagnosis with the family and recommends a plan that includes prophylactic low-dose antibiotics to prevent future infections, close monitoring, and regular follow-up. If the condition does not improve or causes damage to the kidneys, surgery to correct the reflux may be considered. The family is advised on lifestyle modifications and the importance of proper hygiene to reduce the risk of future infections.

Questions
1. What symptom first prompted the pediatrician to investigate further in this child?

A) Bedwetting

B) Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

C) Abdominal pain

D) Frequent vomiting

2. What diagnostic test confirmed the presence of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)?

A) Abdominal X-ray

B) Renal ultrasound and voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG)

C) Complete blood count (CBC)

D) Urine culture

3. What is a common consequence of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) in children?

A) Recurrent kidney stones

B) Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)

C) Dehydration

D) Diarrhea

4. What initial management approach was recommended for this child’s VUR?

A) Surgery to correct the reflux immediately

B) Prophylactic low-dose antibiotics and regular monitoring

C) High-dose antibiotics and bed rest

D) Dietary changes to prevent UTIs

Reveal answers

Answers

1. B

2. B

3. B

4. B