Extraordinary daytime urinary frequency in children.

BACKGROUND

Sudden onset of daytime urinary frequency of a small amount of urine in a previously toilet-trained child can be a disturbing problem. Psychosocial problems, problems at school, or problems within the family have to be taken into consideration.

METHODS

Fifteen children with sudden onset of isolated daytime urinary frequency were evaluated and followed for a period of 12 to 18 months. A thorough medical and family history was obtained for each child, with special attention given to any psychosocial problems the child had experienced. All the children underwent a physical examination, complete urinalysis, and ultrasonography of the kidneys and bladder.

RESULTS

In all of the patients, the urinalysis and ultrasonographic findings were within normal limits. A trigger factor was identified as the cause of urinary frequency in each case.

CONCLUSIONS

Because urinary frequency is usually a benign self-limited condition, an extensive urological evaluation is not indicated. In most cases, providing reassurance to the parents and the child is the only intervention necessary.