Pediatric/ Enuresis
Nocturnal enuresis 'enuresis' is synonymous with bedwetting Enuresis is defined as the repeated voiding of urine into clothes or bed at least twice a week for at least 3 consecutive months in a child who is at least 5 yr of age Children can wet themselves by day or night It is quite common: about 6% of 5-year-olds and 3% of 10-year-olds are not dry at night. Boys outnumber girls by nearly 2 to 1 There is a genetically determined delay in acquiring sphincter competence, with two-thirds of children with enuresis having an affected first-degree relative. Organic causes of enuresis are uncommon but include urinary tract infection faecal retention severe enough to reduce bladder volume and cause bladder neck dysfunction polyuria from osmotic diuresis, e.g. diabetes mellitus, or renal concentrating disorders, e.g. chronic renal failure A urine sample should always be tested for glucose and protein, specific gravity and checked for infection bladder ultrasonograph