Posted by Mary on June 01, 1999 at 09:44:40
Our 4 month old infant son was recently diagnosed with a bladder infection. The Dr. informed us that these are very rare in infants (especially males). He prescribed Bactrin for 10 days. We will be going for diagnostic testing (VCUG and Renal Sonogram) on June 9. They will also do another urinalysis at that time. We finished the antibiotic on May 27. We know that if he has reflux that there is a possibility of kidney damage. Does this possibility increase since he will not be on antibiotics for the 2 week period prior to his diagnostic tests?
Posted by HFHS M.D.-AK on June 03, 1999 at 15:38:55
Dear Mary,
Probably not, but I would leave my patients on the antibiotic until after the study. If your son has reflux he will require long-term antibiotic therapy and follow-up studies. The most important issue with children with reflux is preservation of the renal function and allowing for normal and complete growth of both kidneys. This means avoiding infections of the kidneys to prevent harmful scarring. Sometimes patients are placed on long-term prophylactic antibiotic therapy. These regimens are usually safe as long they are tolerated well by the child. If your child were managed conservatively(medically) periodic follow-up studies must be done to ensure normal scar free growth. Also a physical exam should be performed with special inclusion of height and weight parameters and blood pressure measurements. Laboratory studies should include a urinalysis and urine culture at each visit In terms of radiology tests, a IVP or ultrasound should be obtained every 18-24 months. After the initial VCUG has been performed to establish the current grade of reflux, a follow-up study should be performed to establish an interval relationship or resolution.
Overall, children do very well with prophylactic antibiotics and you can follow the kidney and bladder over time with repeat Ultrasounds, and VCUGs. Reflux can run in families and sibling screening is may be necessary.
This information is provided for general medical educational purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its satellites (1 800 653-6568).
Sincerely,
HFHS M.D.-AK
*keyword: UTI and Reflux
