Overview of the evaluation, diagnosis, and management of urinary tract infections in infants and children

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common serious bacterial infection in infants and children. UTI is an infection of the lower urinary tract, the upper urinary tract, or both. The diagnosis is dependent on the collection and analysis of an uncontaminated urine specimen. It is the combination of bacterial virulence, and host factors that are closely interrelated, which lead to the development of a UTI. Management of UTI in infants and children requires prompt diagnosis, treatment, and resolution of symptoms followed by appropriate radiologic evaluation. The ultimate goal is the preservation of kidney function.