The Frequency of Urinary Tract Infections in Hospitalized Febrile Children at Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Qaemshahr in 2022

Abstract

Background: In many children, unexplained fever may be the sole indicator of a urinary tract infection (UTI). Given the importance of better understanding UTIs in children to prevent associated complications.

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of urinary tract infections among febrile hospitalized children in 2022.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on medical records of children aged 6 months to 13 years hospitalized due to fever at Vali-e-Asr Hospital in Qaemshahr. After obtaining the necessary permissions, demographic and other relevant data were extracted from the patient's medical records using a designed checklist. Additionally, urinalysis (U/A) was performed for all patients.

Results: A total of 208 febrile hospitalized children were examined, including 124 girls and 84 boys. Among these, 26 children (12.5%) were diagnosed with a UTI, of whom 24 were girls (92% of UTI cases) and 2 were boys. The mean age of children with UTIs was 7.5 years, with an average fever duration of approximately one day and a mean body temperature of 38°C. All patients tested positive for pyuria, and the majority exhibited bacteriuria. Associated symptoms included dysuria (22%), abdominal pain (33%), and vomiting (45%).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that accurate recognition of symptoms and their prevalence can assist healthcare professionals in promptly and accurately diagnosing UTIs in children. Identifying related factors can play a critical role in prevention and facilitate targeted care and periodic monitoring for children at risk of UTIs..