Management and treatment of nocturnal enuresis-an updated standardization document from the International Children's Continence Society

Prevalence and relevant factors of nocturia and its impact on sleep quality in Chinese university students

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and relevant factors of nocturia and its impact on sleep quality in university students in Mainland China. A large-scale survey was conducted on 14,000 university students from 3 universities in Henan province, China by using an anonymous questionnaire. The questionnaire collected the information from the past six months. The relationships between the prevalence of nocturia and its relevant factors were evaluated. A total of 13,874 questionnaires were collected and 13,104 qualified for statistical analysis. A total of 659 students suffered from clinically relevant nocturia (CRN) (4.56% in male and 5.34% in female). Both univariate analysis and the logistic stepwise regression model showed that the prevalence of nocturia was significantly related to female, history of enuresis, ease of waking up, urgency, frequency and RUTI (P < 0.05). The sleep quality and the university entrance score of CRN group was significantly lower than that of control group (P < 0.05). Nocturia was common in Chinese university students and showed a negative impact on sleep and academic performance. Gender of female, history of enuresis, ease of waking up, urgency, frequency and RUTI were relevant factors for CRN.

Sleep duration, sleep problems and developmental trajectories of urinary incontinence: a prospective cohort study

To examine if preschool sleep duration and sleep problems are associated with urinary incontinence (UI) at primary school-age. We used multinomial logistic regression to examine the association of child sleep duration/problems (3½ years) with UI trajectories (4-9 years) in 8751 (4507 boys, 4244 girls) from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children. We adjusted for sex, socioeconomic indicators, mothers' emotional/practical/financial support, developmental delay, stressful life events, temperament, and emotional/behaviour problems. Preschool children who slept more than 8½ hours per night had a decreased probability of UI at school-age. There was a 33% reduction in odds of daytime wetting per additional hour of sleep (odds ratio [OR] = 0.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.52-0.86). Sleep problems were associated with increased odds of UI e.g., getting up after being put to bed was associated with daytime wetting (OR = 2.20, 95% CI 1.43-3.39); breathing problems whilst sleeping were associated with delayed bladder control (OR = 1.68, 95% CI 1.12-2.52), and night-time waking was associated with persistent (day and night) wetting (OR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.16-2.00). Waking during the night and waking up early in the morning were associated with reduced odds of bedwetting at school-age (OR = 0.76, 95% CI 0.61-0.96 and OR = 0.80, 95% CI 0.64-0.99 respectively). Preschool children who sleep for longer have a lower likelihood of UI at school-age, whilst those with sleep problems are more likely to experience daytime wetting and combined (day and night) wetting, but not bedwetting alone. Short sleep duration and sleep problems in early childhood could be indicators of future problems attaining and maintaining bladder control.

First uninterrupted sleep period in children and adolescents with nocturnal enuresis: Added value in diagnosis and follow-up during therapy

BACKGROUND

The first uninterrupted sleep period (FUSP, time up to the first episode of enuresis/nocturia after falling asleep) is a frequently investigated parameter in adults with nocturia, as it correlates with quality of life. However, it has not been included in pediatric enuresis studies.

AIM

Investigate FUSP, circadian renal water and sodium handling, as well as sleep quality before and after desmopressin therapy in enuresis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a post hoc analysis of a prospective study in 30 treatment-naïve children with enuresis who underwent a video-polysomnography and a 24-h urine concentration profile before and after 6 months of desmopressin therapy. We analyzed FUSP, periodic limb movements in sleep (PLMS), and arousal indexes and their correlations with the urinary parameters.

RESULTS

Sixteen children with a mean age of 10.9 ± 3.1 years had full registrations and were included in this subanalysis. After therapy, FUSP was significantly longer (p < 0.001), and the PLMS index was lower (p = 0.023). Significant differences in the circadian rhythm of diuresis (night/day diuresis, p = 0.041), nocturnal urinary osmolality (p = 0.009), and creatinine (p = 0.001) were found, demonstrating the increase of urinary concentration overnight by desmopressin, as well as a significant antidiuretic effect (diuresis [p = 0.013] and diuresis rate (p = 0.008). There was no correlation between the difference of FUSP, PLMS index, and urinary parameters. Nevertheless, despite this study being underpowered, there are indications of a correlation between nocturnal diuresis and diuresis rate.

RESULTS

Our results support the need for further research regarding FUSP in children with enuresis, in accordance with nocturia studies in adults, as this parameter could be valuable in the follow-up and evaluation of therapeutic strategies for enuresis.

Self-guided Online Medical Hypnosis Program Improves Dry Nights in Children With Nocturnal Enuresis in a Prospective Single-Center Pilot Study

Bedwetting is a common condition in children. We evaluated the effectiveness of medical hypnosis as a first-line therapy in children with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE). The study enrolled children in a prospective single-center pilot clinical trial consisting of 1 month diary of dry nights prior to using the commercially available hypnosis intervention (www.keepingthebeddry.com), followed by 3 consecutive months diary following intervention. Seventeen children aged 8 to 15 years old were enrolled and 12 recorded at least 1 month data after the hypnosis intervention. The median dry nights prior to intervention was 8 (0-17) days and improved to 15.5 (7-28) days by the third month post-intervention (P = .0033). All patients who completed the study showed an improvement. Self-guided medical hypnosis therapy showed significant improvement in dry nights without any side effects and any identifiable risk to patients. It should be considered for use in children as first-line therapy for PMNE.

Clinical phenotyping of children with nocturnal enuresis: A key classification to improve the approach

INTRODUCTION

The literature shows that nocturnal enuresis is not an isolated phenomenon of urinary loss during sleep, but encompasses a set of systemic clinical manifestations that significantly influence children's quality of life and development. However, the understanding of the clinical and physiological relationship of these systemic manifestations remains a clinical challenge. The recognition of these manifestations and their subsequent categorisation, may provide better insights into integrated clinical manifestations, facilitating the understanding of pathophysiological mechanisms, and promote increased assertiveness in the assessment and the selection of appropriate therapies.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop a phenotyping model for children with nocturnal enuresis based on evidence.

METHODS

This study presents a clinical phenotyping model for children with nocturnal enuresis based on an analytical and methodological review of the literature, about nocturnal enuresis and its associated clinical manifestations. There was a bibliometric analysis carried out to better analyse outcomes. After reading and analysing the literature, the clinical manifestations were categorised into domains and submitted to the validation of an expert committee with extensive experience in their specific area of expertise. A visual representation of the categorised model was developed to make the phenotyping concept easily understandable to all professionals.

RESULTS

The clinical manifestations related to nocturnal enuresis have been categorised according to frequency and relation found in the literature and validation by an expert committee and the development of the phenotyping model for children with nocturnal enuresis was completed.

CONCLUSION

The present study developed an evidence-based phenotyping model for children with nocturnal enuresis.

Exploring lifelong overactive bladder: Transitions, evidence, and clinical implications; A modified Delphi process

INTRODUCTION

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a prevalent urological condition characterized by urinary urgency, with or without urgency urinary incontinence, accompanied by increased daytime frequency and nocturia. However, the current definition of OAB lacks a specified time frame, hindering our understanding of the temporal aspects and transitions that occur within the OAB spectrum.

METHODS

A modified Delphi study was conducted in three rounds, involving a panel of international experts in functional urology, urogynaecology, geriatrics, transitional medicine, and pediatric urology. The study took place between February 2023 and June 2023 and employed two sequential rounds of online surveys, followed by a final hybrid group discussion session in June 2023.

RESULTS

The Delphi process resulted in a consensus definition of lifelong OAB as a persistent and continuous condition that may manifest differently from birth and evolve over time, with varying levels of clinical perception. The course of its progression is influenced by transition periods and modifying factors, mainly anatomical, hormonal, and psychosocial/stressors. Three main transition periods were identified: achievement of daytime continence, adulthood to elderly, and transition to frail elderly. The panel also considered the therapeutic and diagnostic implications of lifelong OAB, as well as future research prospects in terms of importance and feasibility.

CONCLUSIONS

Future longitudinal research is needed to develop this concept and further identify transitions and temporal dynamics.

Management of the refractory nocturnal enuresis patient to desmopressin in a pediatric population: Desmopressin + oxybutynin vs. desmopressin + imipramine

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Desmopressin is well accepted as first-line medical therapy for enuresis. If ineffective, combination therapy of desmopressin + oxybutynin or desmopressin + imipramine has been used. This study assessed the efficacy of adjunct therapy with either imipramine or oxybutynin in the management of enuresis patients who failed desmopressin treatment.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective chart review of our database for patients with enuresis was performed. Patients who were prescribed desmopressin, oxybutynin, and imipramine over 14 years for enuresis were included. Two cohorts of patients were examined; group OXY was treated with desmopressin and oxybutynin, and group IMP received desmopressin and imipramine. Pretreatment measurement of Vancouver Symptom Scores (VSS) were used to compare groups using the VSS question "I wet my bed at night" where 4: every night, 3: 4-5 nights per week, 2: 1-2 nights per week, 1: 3-4 nights per month, and 0: never. International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) criteria for continence success was utilized to determine outcomes.

RESULTS

2521 patients prescribed one of the 3 medications were identified. Among them, 81 patients (mean age: 10.5 ± 2.8 years) received combination therapy. Of which, 55 were male and 26 female. Specifically, 58 were prescribed both desmopressin and imipramine (group IMP), 23 desmopressin and oxybutynin (group OXY), and 4 transitioned from OXY to IMP. Mean pretreatment VSS showed no difference between groups. Both groups experienced minimal drops in wet nights with desmopressin alone. A comparison revealed that group IMP reduced wet nights significantly more than group OXY (VSS wet night score 0.7 ± 1.2 vs. 2.3 ± 1.1 respectively, p < 0.0001). Non-intent-to-treat complete response rate was 68% vs 5% (OR = 42.5, p < 0.001) (IMP vs. OXY respectively). Intent-to-treat response rates were 58%.

DISCUSSION

Although first-line desmopressin treatment for enuresis is effective, it does not work for all patients, and many parents and children desire nighttime dryness. Clinicians have combined desmopressin with oxybutynin or imipramine for improved results, but research comparing these modalities is scarce. Our study suggests that the desmopressin and imipramine combination is superior at reducing nights wet compared to desmopressin and oxybutynin, attributed to imipramine's probable central mechanism rather than its secondary anticholinergic properties. Limitations include a modest sample size, retrospective design, and subjective responses to the Vancouver questionnaire.

CONCLUSION

A combination of desmopressin and imipramine was more effective in reducing wet nights and had a complete response rate that was 42.5 times greater than desmopressin and oxybutynin.

Voiding camp: A successful and unique bladder rehabilitation program for children with urinary incontinence

INTRODUCTION & BACKGROUND

Standard urotherapy is a well-established treatment for children with incontinence, although it is often challenging for both child and parents, and not always successful. As an alternative, several in- and outpatient bladder training programs have shown positive results on achieving continence. However, the disadvantage is the hospital environment, which can be more stressful for the child, and also quite expensive for society.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to evaluate the outcome on achieving continence following a voiding camp, where standard urotherapy was applied during a one-week stay at a regular summer youth camp, outside the hospital.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of 105 children with urinary incontinence, followed in an expert centre for urinary incontinence for at least one year. Data at 7 different time points, before, during and until 6 months after voiding camp were collected.

RESULTS

Even though all children had regular follow-up in an expert centre for urinary incontinence for at least one year before participating voiding camp, only 15% of the children reached the recommended amount of daily fluid intake (1.5 L/day). Once minimal daily fluid intake was re-established during the voiding camp, an immediate increase in the maximum voided volume (MVV), and a decrease in the number of wet days and wet nights per week was noted. This effect on a higher MVV remained even 3 months after voiding camp.

DISCUSSION

Although sufficient daily fluid intake is a well-established part of standard urotherapy, up until now there was no data that proved the positive impact of sufficient daily fluid intake on bladder volume training and achieving continence in children.

CONCLUSION

Voiding camp, as an unique bladder rehabilitation program for children with incontinence, is a successful alternative treatment option. Optimizing the daily fluid intake during voiding camp had a major positive impact on bladder volume training and achieving continence in children.

Discontinuing absorbent pants in children with bedwetting: a randomized controlled trial

The objective of this study is to examine the effect of discontinuing wearing protective garments (absorbent pyjama pants - APP) in children with severe childhood nocturnal enuresis (NE). The study employs a multicenter, parallel, randomized controlled trial. Following a 4-week run-in period, participants were randomly allocated in a 2:1 group allocation to discontinue or continue using APP. The research was conducted across seven European pediatric incontinence centers. The study included treatment-naïve children aged 4-8 years with severe (7/7 wet nights per week) mono-symptomatic NE, who had used nighttime protection for at least 6 months prior to the study. The study consisted of a 4-week run-in period (± 7 days), where all children slept wearing APP (DryNites®). At week 4 (± 7 days), if meeting randomization criteria (7/7 wet nights during the last week of run-in), participants were randomized to continue to sleep in APP or to discontinue their use for a further 4 weeks, with the option of another 4 weeks in the extension period. The primary outcome was the difference between groups of wet nights during the last week of intervention. Quality of life (QoL) and sleep were secondary endpoints. In total, 105 children (43 girls and 62 boys, mean age 5.6 years [SD 1.13]) were randomized (no-pants group n = 70, pants group n = 35). Fifteen children (21%) in the no-pants group discontinued early due to stress related to the intervention. Children in the no-pants group experienced fewer wet nights compared to the pants group during the last week (difference 2.3 nights, 95% CI 1.54-3.08; p < 0.0001). In the no-pants group, 20% responded to the intervention, of whom 13% had a full response. Clinical improvement was detected within 2 weeks. Sleep and QoL were reported as negatively affected by APP discontinuation in the extension period but not in the core period.    Conclusion: A ~ 10% complete resolution rate was associated with discontinuing APP. While statistically significant, the clinical relevance is debatable, and the intervention should be tried only if the family is motivated. Response was detectable within 2 weeks. Discontinuing APP for 4-8 weeks was reported to negatively affect QoL and sleep quality. No severe side effects were seen.Trial registration: Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT04620356; date registered: September 23, 2020. Registered under the name: "Effect of Use of DryNites Absorbent Pyjama Pants on the Rate of Spontaneous Resolution of Paediatric Nocturnal Enuresis (NE)."

Therapeutic potential of vasopressin in the treatment of neurological disorders

Vasopressin (VP) is a nonapeptide made of nine amino acids synthesized by the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. VP acts as a neurohormone, neuropeptide and neuromodulator and plays an important role in the regulation of water balance, osmolarity, blood pressure, body temperature, stress response, emotional challenges, etc. Traditionally VP is known to regulate the osmolarity and tonicity. VP and its receptors are widely expressed in the various region of the brain including cortex, hippocampus, basal forebrain, amygdala, etc. VP has been shown to modulate the behavior, stress response, circadian rhythm, cerebral blood flow, learning and memory, etc. The potential role of VP in the regulation of these neurological functions have suggested the therapeutic importance of VP and its analogues in the management of neurological disorders. Further, different VP analogues have been developed across the world with different pharmacotherapeutic potential. In the present work authors highlighted the therapeutic potential of VP and its analogues in the treatment and management of various neurological disorders.

Predictors of treatment response in therapy-resistant enuresis

BACKGROUND

The voiding chart is part of the initial evaluation of enuresis, since the data gathered this way are assumed to carry predictive information. However, there is little evidence that the voiding chart actually does predict therapy response. Lundmark & Nevéus performed a pilot investigation in 2020 and found that anamnestic and voiding chart data did not predict response to second-line therapies. This study aims at evaluating whether these findings could be replicated.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is an evaluation of clinical practice. All patients in a tertiary outpatient clinic with enuresis resistant to first-line therapy (i.e. the enuresis alarm and desmopressin medication) during the evaluation period were included in the study. Baseline anamnestic data focused on bladder and bowel habits, were gathered and the families were instructed to complete a voiding chart including measurements of nocturnal urine production. The children were then treated in accordance with international guidelines, which are anticholinergics and antidepressants as second- and third-line treatment, respectively. Desmopressin was added if needed.

RESULTS

In total, 70 patients were included. At the end of the study 37 of these patients were dry, 11 patients were still wetting their beds and 22 patients were lost to follow-up. Of the dry patients 21 became dry on anticholinergics (and/or mirabegron, with or without desmopressin), five on tricyclic antidepressants (with or without desmopressin), seven after a new attempt with the alarm and five became dry spontaneously. The only statistically significant differences between responders and non-responders to the various treatments were that children responsive to anticholinergics had harder and more infrequent stools (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This study found that anamnestic and voiding chart data do not predict response to treatment in children with therapy-resistant enuresis. Because of this and the fact that we lose some children who need our help by demanding that they complete a voiding chart before initiating treatment, we question the use of this instrument in the evaluation of therapy-resistant enuresis.

Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Short Screening Instrument for Psychological Problems in Enuresis for use in Brazil (SSIPPE-Br)

OBJECTIVE

Enuresis is associated with attentional and emotional comorbidities in 20 to 30 % of cases. The Short Screening Instrument for Psychological Problems in Enuresis (SSIPPE) is a questionnaire that allows the initial screening of these comorbidities. This study aimed to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the SSIPPE for Brazilian children and adolescents (SSIPPE-Br).

METHODS

Six steps were performed for translation and cross-cultural adaptation: translation, synthesis of translations, back-translation, preparation of the pre-final version of the translated instrument, test of comprehensibility of the pre-final version of the tool, and elaboration of the instrument cross-culturally adapted for Brazil, named 13-itens version SSIPPE-Br. To validate the SSIPPE-Br, a cross-sectional study was carried out, in which the validated Brazilian version of the Child and Adolescent Behavior Inventory (CABI) was used.

RESULTS

Validation was performed on 127 children and adolescents with a mean age of 9.7 ± 2.8 years, 48 % male. The reliability was estimated using Cronbach's alpha, ranging from 0.86 to 0.89, indicating good internal consistency. The factorial analysis had a good agreement adjustment (KMO 0.755, Bartlett's test < 0.001) and explained 70.5 % of the data variability. In the reproducibility analysis, the Kappa coefficient ranged from 0.94 to 1, which can be considered almost perfect. A highly significant (p-value < 0.001) and direct correlation existed between the three SSIPPE-Br domains and all evaluated CABI domains.

CONCLUSION

The SSIPPE-Br is a valid and reliable tool for emotional problems screening and ADHD symptoms in children and adolescents with enuresis whose first language is Brazilian Portuguese.

Mental health problems, stressful life events and new-onset urinary incontinence in primary school-age children: a prospective cohort study

Emotional/behaviour problems and exposure to stressful life events are thought to contribute to new onset of urinary incontinence (UI) amongst children who have attained bladder control. However, very few prospective studies have examined these associations. We assessed whether mental health problems and stressful life events were associated with subsequent new onset in UI using multivariable logistic regression in a prospective UK cohort (n = 6408). Mothers provided information on their child's symptoms of common mental disorders (Development and Wellbeing Assessment, 7 years), stressful life events (7-8 years) and wetting (day and night, 9 years). There was strong evidence that separation anxiety symptoms were associated with new-onset UI in the fully adjusted model (OR (95% CI) = 2.08 (1.39, 3.13), p < 0.001). Social anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and oppositional defiant disorder symptoms were associated with new-onset UI, but these associations attenuated following adjustment for child developmental level and earlier emotional/behaviour problems. There was weak evidence for a sex interaction with stressful life events (p = 0.065), such that females experiencing more stressful life events were at higher risk of new-onset UI (fully adjusted model OR (95% CI) = 1.66 (1.05, 2.61), p = 0.029), but there was no association in males (fully adjusted model OR (95% CI) = 0.87 (0.52, 1.47), p = 0.608). These results suggest that separation anxiety and stressful life events in girls may lead to an increase in UI.

Predictors of response and adherence to enuresis alarm therapy-a confirmatory study

AIM

To look for predictors to response and adherence to the enuresis alarm while exploring the possibility of families managing therapy independently.

METHODS

We used a body-worn alarm linked to a smartphone app. Subjects with enuresis were recruited both via paediatric nurses and independently as families bought the alarm and downloaded the app on their own.

RESULTS

We recruited 385 nurse-supported and 1125 independent subjects. Many (79.9%) dropped out before 8 weeks, but among adherent subjects 48.2% had a full or partial response. Age was a predictor of non-response (p = 0.019). Daytime incontinence did not influence response. If enuresis frequency did not decrease during the first 4 weeks of therapy the chance of response was very small (p < 0.001). Adherence was higher among subjects supported by a nurse (p < 0.001), but for adherent subjects the outcome was similar regardless of nurse support (p = 0.554).

CONCLUSIONS

Daytime incontinence is no contraindication to enuresis alarm therapy. Treatment can be managed independently by the families, but adherence is enhanced by nurse support. Alarm treatment should be reassessed after 4 weeks. Enuresis alarm treatment guidelines need to be updated.

Measurement properties of the childhood bladder and bowel dysfunction questionnaire

OBJECTIVES

The childhood bladder and bowel dysfunction questionnaire (CBBDQ) was previously found feasible, structurally valid, with good internal consistency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the remaining measurement properties according to the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN).

METHODS

A prospective cohort study among parents of children aged 5-12 years was conducted. Calculated were the area under the curve (AUC) (criterion validity, responsiveness, interpretability) and intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCagreement ) (construct validity and test-retest reliability).

RESULTS

One hundred and seventy-two parents were included from March 2019 to April 2021. Correlating the bladder subscales of the CBBDQ with the Vancouver symptom score for dysfunctional elimination (VSSDES) and proxy-reported pediatric incontinence quality of life (p-PinQ) showed convergent validity (ICCsagreement : 0.76 and 0.74). Divergent validity was found when correlating the bowel subscales of the CBBDQ with the VSSDES (ICCagreement : 0.52). Excellent criterion validity (AUC: 0.98); excellent test-retest reliability (ICCagreement : 0.94) and, at 6 months, fair responsiveness (AUC: 0.74) were found. The minimal important change was 4.5, with cut-off value of 11.

CONCLUSION

The CBBDQ has been developed according to COSMIN standards. The items were defined using the consensus-based ICCS standards and Rome-III criteria. The measurement properties were identified using enough participants. Although interpretability is not considered a measurement property, interpretability aspects are reported here as they refer to what instrument scores mean. The 18-item-CBBDQ met the measurement properties of validity, reliability, and responsiveness, as defined by COSMIN. The CBBDQ is suitable for self-administration by parents, and completion takes little time.

Internet Health Resources on Nocturnal Enuresis: A Readability, Quality, and Accuracy Analysis

INTRODUCTION

 Nocturnal enuresis is a common yet quality-of-life-limiting pediatric condition. There is an increasing trend for parents to obtain information on the disease's nature and treatment options via the internet. However, the quality of health-related information on the internet varies greatly and is largely uncontrolled and unregulated. With this study, a readability, quality, and accuracy evaluation of the health information regarding nocturnal enuresis is carried out.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 A questionnaire was administered to parents and patients with nocturnal enuresis to determine their use of the internet to research their condition. The most common search terms were determined, and the first 30 websites returned by the most popular search engines were used to assess the quality of information about nocturnal enuresis. Each site was categorized by type and assessed for readability using the Gunning fog score, Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG) index, and Dale-Chall score; for quality using the DISCERN score; and for accuracy by comparison to the International Children's Continence Society guidelines by three experienced pediatric urologists and nephrologists.

RESULTS

 A total of 30 websites were assessed and classified into five categories: professional (n = 13), nonprofit (n = 8), commercial (n = 4), government (n = 3), and other (n = 2). The information was considered difficult for the public to comprehend, with mean Gunning fog, SMOG index, and Dale-Chall scores of 12.1 ± 4.3, 14.1 ± 4.3, and 8.1 ± 1.3, respectively. The mean summed DISCERN score was 41 ± 11.6 out of 75. Only seven (23%) websites were considered of good quality (DISCERN score > 50). The mean accuracy score of the websites was 3.2 ± 0.6 out of 5. Commercial websites were of the poorest quality and accuracy. Websites generally scored well in providing their aims and identifying treatment benefits and options, while they lacked references and information regarding treatment risks and mechanisms.

CONCLUSION

 Online information about nocturnal enuresis exists for parents; however, most websites are of suboptimal quality, readability, and accuracy. Pediatric surgeons should be aware of parents' health-information-seeking behavior and be proactive in guiding parents to identify high-quality resources.

Interventions for Enuresis in Children and Adolescents: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

BACKGROUND

Enuresis is an involuntary and intermittent loss of urine during sleep, and its treatment can be done by pharmacological and non-pharmacological strategies.

OBJECTIVE

To conduct an overview to carry out a survey of the systematic reviews about treatment options for children/adolescents with enuresis.

METHODS

Databases used were Cochrane Library, PROSPERO, MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS/BVS, PEDro, SciELO and Google Scholar. Any type of intervention for the treatment of enuresis in children/adolescents was selected by two independent researchers. Data extraction was done by two independent researchers. The risk of bias was assessed using Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) and A MeaSurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2).

RESULTS

Seven systematic reviews were included. According to ROBIS, three reviews had a low risk of bias, while the others had a high risk of bias. Based on AMSTAR-2, four systematic reviews were of moderate quality, two were low quality, and one was critically low quality.

CONCLUSION

There is moderate confidence that the use of desmopressin plus an anticholinergic agent increases the chance of complete response compared to desmopressin alone. Neurostimulation may increase the risk of responses ≥50% and ≥90% compared to the control group. Likewise, it appears that electrical stimulation is superior to placebo about the chance of response ≥50%. In addition, there is clinical relevance in reducing enuresis episodes per week when neurostimulation is used compared to control groups.

The pooled analysis evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of desmopressin combined with anticholinergic drugs in the treatment of pediatric nocturnal enuresis

OBJECTIVE

This pooled analysis aims to demonstrate the clinical efficacy and safety of combined desmopressin and anticholinergic therapy in the treatment of pediatric nocturnal enuresis (NE).

METHODS

A systematic search was conducted through PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, ResearchGate, and Cochrane Library to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing monotherapy with desmopressin versus combined therapy with desmopressin and anticholinergic agents for the treatment of NE. Data analysis was performed using RevMan version 5.4.1.

RESULTS

This study included 8 RCTs involving a total of 659 patients. The frequencies of complete response (CR), partial response (PR), and nonresponse (NR) were computed for both short-term treatment (1 month) and long-term treatment (3 months). Additionally, alterations in the mean number of NE episodes, adverse events, and relapse were assessed. Our analysis indicates that, in comparison to the monotherapy group, the combination therapy group plays a pivotal role in augmenting the CR odds and diminishing the NR ratios in both short-term and long-term treatments (1 month CR ratio [risk ratio (RR): 1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.22-2.76; p = 0.003, I2  = 72%]; 3 months CR ratio [RR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.25-1.76; p < 0.00001, I2  = 0%]; 1 month NR ratio [RR: 0.67; 95% CI: 0.55-0.82; p = 0.0001, I2  = 0%]; 3 months CR ratio [RR: 0.37; 95% CI: 0.19-0.73; p = 0.004, I2  = 0%]). Furthermore, in both short-term and long-term treatment, the combined therapy group exhibits a greater magnitude of change in the average number of NE episodes compared to patients receiving monotherapy (1 month, mean difference [MD] = -2.97; 95% CI: -4.23 to -1.71, p < 0.0001; 3 months, MD = -4.30; 95% CI: -7.18 to -1.43, p = 0.003). Moreover, the combination therapy group exhibits a significant reduction in the recurrence rate (RR: 0.36; 95% CI: 0.15-0.86; p = 0.02). There is no significant difference in the incidence of adverse events between the two groups (RR: 1.16; 95% CI: 0.58-2.31; p = 0.67).

CONCLUSION

Combining desmopressin with anticholinergic medications is more effective for NE than desmopressin alone, with lower recurrence and minimal adverse effects.

First-Year Experience of Managing Urology Patients With Home Uroflowmetry: Descriptive Retrospective Analysis

BACKGROUND

Lower urinary tract symptoms affect a large number of people of all ages and sexes. The clinical assessment typically involves a bladder diary and uroflowmetry test. Conventional paper-based diaries are affected by low patient compliance, whereas in-clinic uroflowmetry measurement face challenges such as patient stress and inconvenience factors. Home uroflowmetry and automated bladder diaries are believed to overcome these limitations.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we present our first-year experience of managing urological patients using Minze homeflow, which combines home uroflowmetry and automated bladder diaries. Our objective was 2-fold: first, to provide a description of the reasons for using homeflow and second, to compare the data obtained from homeflow with the data obtained from in-clinic uroflowmetry (hospiflow).

METHODS

A descriptive retrospective analysis was conducted using Minze homeflow between July 2019 and July 2020 at a tertiary university hospital. The device comprises a Bluetooth-connected gravimetric uroflowmeter, a patient smartphone app, and a cloud-based clinician portal. Descriptive statistics, Bland-Altman plots, the McNemar test, and the Wilcoxon signed rank test were used for data analysis.

RESULTS

The device was offered to 166 patients, including 91 pediatric and 75 adult patients. In total, 3214 homeflows and 129 hospiflows were recorded. Homeflow proved valuable for diagnosis, particularly in cases where hospiflow was unreliable or unsuccessful, especially in young children. It confirmed or excluded abnormal hospiflow results and provided comprehensive data with multiple measurements taken at various bladder volumes, urge levels, and times of the day. As a result, we found that approximately one-fourth of the patients with abnormal flow curves in the clinic had normal bell-shaped flow curves at home. Furthermore, homeflow offers the advantage of providing an individual's plot of maximum flow rate (Q-max) versus voided volume as well as an average or median result. Our findings revealed that a considerable percentage of patients (22/76, 29% for pediatric patients and 24/50, 48% for adult patients) had a Q-max measurement from hospiflow falling outside the range of homeflow measurements. This discrepancy may be attributed to the unnatural nature of the hospiflow test, resulting in nonrepresentative uroflow curves and an underestimation of Q-max, as confirmed by the Bland-Altman plot analysis. The mean difference for Q-max was -3.1 mL/s (with an upper limit of agreement of 13 mL/s and a lower limit of agreement of -19.2 mL/s), which was statistically significant (Wilcoxon signed rank test: V=2019.5; P<.001). Given its enhanced reliability, homeflow serves as a valuable tool not only for diagnosis but also for follow-up, allowing for the evaluation of treatment effectiveness and home monitoring of postoperative and recurrent interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our first-year experience with Minze homeflow demonstrated its feasibility and usefulness in the diagnosis and follow-up of various patient categories. Homeflow provided more reliable and comprehensive voiding data compared with hospiflow.

Comparative Analysis of Solifenacin Plus Desmopressin Versus Desmopressin Alone in the Treatment of Primary Mono Symptomatic Nocturnal Enuresis

OBJECTIVES

To compare the efficacy and tolerability of Solifenacin plus Desmopressin and Desmopressin alone in the treatment of primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE).

METHODS

A total of 88 children, 5-14 years old, diagnosed with PMNE were enrolled in this randomized control trial (RCT) from June 2017 to June 2020. After informed written consent patients were randomized to one of the two therapeutic groups. Group 1 received one puff of desmopressin nasal spray 1 h before bedtime every night. Group 2 received one pill of solifenacin 5 mg plus one puff of desmopressin nasal spray 1 h before bedtime every night. All patients were evaluated after three months for their response to treatment and drug side effects.

RESULTS

The mean age in desmopressin alone group and solifenacin plus desmopressin group was 8.1 ± 2.2 (5-14) and 7.9 ± 2.2 (5-14) years respectively (p-value >0.05). In group 2, 37/44 (84.09%) patients achieved complete response after three months of treatment in comparison to group 1 in which 27/44 (61.36%) patients showed complete response (p-value <0.05). In group 1, 8/44 (18.18%) patients developed treatment related side effects whereas in group 2, 12/44 (27.27%) patients developed side effects (p-value >0.05). No case of discontinuation of treatment due to side effects was observed in any of the two groups. The recurrence rate was also significantly lower in group 2 in comparison to group 1 (8.1% vs 33.3%, p-value <0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated that the combination of Solifenacin plus Desmopressin is more effective than desmopressin monotherapy in the treatment of PMNE with an acceptable tolerability profile.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Differences in the urinary metabolome and proteome between wet and dry nights in children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and nocturnal polyuria

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a common disease with multiple pathogenic mechanisms. This study aimed to compare levels of metabolites and proteins between wet and dry nights in urine samples from children with monosymptomatic NE (MNE).

METHODS

Ten boys with MNE and nocturnal polyuria (age: 7.6 ± 1.3 years) collected their total nighttime urine production during a wet and a dry night. Untargeted metabolomics and proteomics were performed on the urine samples by liquid chromatography coupled with high-mass accuracy tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

RESULTS

On wet nights, we found reduced urine osmolality (P = 0.025) and increased excretion of urinary potassium and sodium by a factor of, respectively, 2.1 (P = 0.038) and 1.9 (P = 0.19) compared with dry nights. LC-MS identified 59 metabolites and 84 proteins with significantly different levels between wet and dry nights (fold change (FC) < 0.67 or > 1.5, P < 0.05). Some compounds were validated by different methodologies. During wet nights, levels of compounds related to oxidative stress and blood pressure, including adrenalin, were increased. We found reduced levels of aquaporin-2 on wet nights. The FCs in the 59 metabolites were positively correlated to the FCs in the same metabolites identified in urine samples obtained during the evening preceding wet and dry nights.

CONCLUSIONS

Oxidative stress, which in the literature has been associated with nocturia and disturbances in sleep, might be increased during wet nights in children with MNE. We further found evidence of increased sympathetic activity. The mechanisms related to having wet nights in children with MNE seem complex, and both free water and solute handling appear to be important. A higher resolution version of the Graphical abstract is available as Supplementary information.

L'évaluation et la prise en charge de l'énurésie en pédiatrie générale

Pour évaluer l'énurésie, un trouble pédiatrique courant, il faut en distinguer la forme monosymptomatique de la forme non monosymptomatique et établir la présence d'affections concomitantes. La prise en charge simultanée des facteurs cooccurrents est le meilleur moyen pour obtenir un résultat satisfaisant. Le traitement commence par l'éducation du patient et de sa famille sur l'évolution naturelle de l'énurésie et par des conseils pratiques sur le comportement. Les données probantes en appui à des interventions particulières sont limitées, et les enfants et les familles devraient participer au choix du traitement approprié. Les dispositifs d'alarme contre l'énurésie et la desmopressine représentent des possibilités thérapeutiques lorsqu'une intervention plus active est souhaitée. Des améliorations cliniques et des traitements combinés sont en voie de se dégager.

Sleep features of nocturnal enuresis: relationship between rapid eye movement sleep latency prolongation and nocturnal enuresis

Nocturnal enuresis, or bed wetting, is the involuntary urination during sleep. One of its causes is difficulty awakening during sleep, suggesting a relationship between Nocturnal enuresis (NE) and sleep. However, no studies have yet clarified the relationship between NE and sleep, and the effects of sleep structure in NE children are not yet known. Assuming that changes in sleep structure are related to NE, there would be a difference in sleep structure between days with and without NE. We measured the sleep electroencephalograms of 27 at home patients aged 6-16 years, evaluated the differences between days with and without NE, and examined the NE-associated sleep characteristics associated. The evaluation items were total sleep time, sleep efficiency, the ratio of rapid eye movement (REM) to non-REM sleep, REM sleep latency, and non-REM sleep latency. Factors influencing NE were examined by logistic regression analysis, with NE presence/absence as the dependent variable and each evaluation item as the independent variable. Given that 2-6 measurements were made for each patient, Generalized Estimating Equations was used in the analysis. NE positively correlated with prolonged REM sleep latency, but no significant differences were found in other sleep structures. A positive correlation exists between NE and prolonged REM sleep latency. Changes in sleep structure in the early stages of sleep may lead to increased nocturnal urine volume and increased NE frequency.

OCCULT AND SEMI-OCCULT CONSTIPATION IN CHILDREN WITH MONOSYMPTOMATIC OR NON MONOSYMPTOMATIC ENURESIS

BACKGROUND

Functional constipation and enuresis frequently coexist. Constipation treatment often results in resolution or improvement of the enuresis. However, besides the classical presentation, patients can present with occult constipation (OC) diagnosed in complementary evaluation; in addition, semi-occult constipation (SOC) can be detected by means of a detailed questionnaire.

OBJECTIVE

To quantify OC and SOC frequency in children with monosymptomatic or non monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE or NMNE).

METHODS

Otherwise healthy children/adolescents, with enuresis refractory to behavioral therapy and denying constipation after simple questions, answered a structured bowel habit questionnaire and were submitted to a plain abdominal radiological exam. Constipation was classified considering the Boston diagnostic criteria (to allow diagnosis at initial stages), and fecal loading in the X-ray quantified ≥10 by the Barr score. Children with constipation received a standardized treatment (except 26 "pilot" children).

RESULTS

Out of 81 children, 80 aged 9.34±2.07 years, 52.5% male, were diagnosed with constipation: 30 OC, 50 SOC; 63.75% had MNE, 36.25% NMNE (six NMNE without behavioral therapy). Demographic data and the Barr score were similar for OC and SOC, but SOC children experienced significantly more constipation complications (retentive fecal incontinence and/or recurrent abdominal pain). Not showing the Bristol Stool Scale (BSS) to 24 "pilot" children, or absence of constipation symptoms accompanying BSS predominantly type 3, in 13 children, did not significantly impact the detection of constipation by the Barr score. Children identifying BSS 3 or ≤2 had similar results. Twenty-eight children, with adequate follow-up after treatment, improved or recovered from constipation at 44 of their 52 follow-up visits.

CONCLUSION

In patients with MNE or NMNE refractory to behavioral therapy, and who initially denied constipation after simple questions, a detailed questionnaire based on the Boston diagnostic criteria detected SOC in 61.7%, and the radiological Barr score revealed fecal loading (OC) in 37.0% of them.

Evaluation and management of enuresis in the general paediatric setting

Assessing enuresis involves distinguishing monosymptomatic from non-monosymptomatic for this common paediatric problem, and identifying concomitant comorbidities. Addressing co-occurring factors concurrently ensures the best opportunity for a satisfactory outcome. Treatment begins with patient and family education on the natural history of enuresis and practical behavioural guidance. Evidence to support particular interventions is limited, and children and families should be involved when choosing appropriate therapy. Enuresis alarms and desmopressin are treatment options when more active intervention is desired. Clinical refinements and combined treatment modalities are emerging.

Initial outcomes using a novel bedwetting alarm (Gogoband®) that utilizes real time artificial intelligence to wake users prior to wetting

We evaluated a new bedwetting alarm, GOGOband®® which utilizes real time heart rate variability (HRV) analysis and applied artificial intelligence (AI) to create an alarm that can wake the user prior to wetting. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of GOGOband® for users in the first 18-months of use.

METHODS

A quality assurance study was conducted on data retrieved from our servers, of initial users of the GOGOband® which includes a heart rate monitor, moisture sensor, bedside PC-tablet, and a parent app. There are three sequential modes beginning with Training, Predictive mode and Weaning mode. Outcomes were reviewed and data analysis was done with SPSS and xlstat.

RESULTS

All 54 subjects who used the system from Jan 1, 2020, to June 2021 for more than 30 nights were included in this analysis. The mean age of the subjects is 10.1 ± 3.7 yrs. Subjects wet the bed a median of 7 (IQR6-7) nights per week prior to treatment. Severity and number of accidents per night had no impact on the ability to achieve dryness with GOGOband®. A crosstab analysis was performed which indicated that high compliant users (>80%) can remain dry 93% of the time compared to the whole group 87.7%. Overall ability to achieve 14 dry nights in a row was 66.7% (36/54) with some achieving a median of 16 14-day periods of dryness (IQR 0-35.75).

CONCLUSIONS

We found 93% dry night rate in high compliance users in Weaning, this translates to 1.2 wet nights per 30 days. This compares to all users who wet 26.5 nights prior to treatment and 11.3 wet nights per 30 days during Training. The ability to achieve 14 days straight of dry nights was 85%. Our findings indicate that GOGOband® provides a significant benefit to all its users reducing nocturnal enuresis rates.

J. Treating asthma in patients with enuresis: repercussions on urinary symptoms

BACKGROUND

Children presenting enuresis are more likely to be asthmatics. The association between enuresis and sleep-disordered breathing has already been demonstrated and several studies have shown at least partial improvement of two thirds or more of the cases of enuresis adenoidectomy. Studies have already described associations between enuresis and allergies but do not assess the repercussions of allergy treatment in enuretics.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluated whether asthma treatment alters the course of enuresis and whether there is any predictive factor associated with this improvement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty patients (5 - 12 years old) with uncontrolled enuresis and asthma, received treatment for asthma. Children were also assessed for the presence of rhinitis and other allergies. The control of asthma was confirmed by a validated questionnaire and primary enuresis by clinical history and wet night diaries. Patients received only asthma treatment.

RESULTS

At least partial improvement of enuresis was observed in 55% of the patients with an increase in 64.4% in the number of dry nights at the end of the study (p=0.01). The "presence of other allergies" and "obstruction seen in nasal endoscopy" positively influenced the improvement of urinary symptoms (OR = 3.350; CI 0.844-13.306) and (OR=1.272; CI 0.480-3.370), respectively.

DISCUSSION

Until now, only patients presenting upper airway obstruction were known to benefit from the improvement of urinary symptoms when undergoing treatment for their respiratory problems. In our study, we found at least partial improvement in enuresis in 55% of our patients, with only clinical asthma treatment.

CONCLUSION

Controlling asthma in children with primary enuresis resulted in a significant increase in dry nights.

Parental Beliefs About the Causes, Treatments, and Medical Assistance for Children With Nocturnal Enuresis in the Eastern Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVE

To assess parental beliefs about the causes, treatment, and necessity for medical assistance for children with nocturnal enuresis (NE).

METHOD

A self-administered survey questioned parents' beliefs about NE, including causes and at-home behavioral therapy. We evaluated the association between demographic characteristics and the tendency to seek medical advice for NE.

RESULT

The questionnaire received responses from 1232 individuals, 77.1% of whom were female and 82.9% of whom were 30 years of age or older. Psychological issues (53.5%) and laziness to get up (47.6%) were the most often believed causes of NE. Two frequent at-home behavioral therapies chosen by participants were voiding before bedtime and restricting fluid intake at night (73.4% and 70%, respectively). However, only 6.9% of respondents believe that a bedwetting alarm is an effective treatment. The two most frequently reported reasons for not seeking medical attention were parents' belief that their child will eventually outgrow bedwetting (34.1%) and "parents or children's embarrassment" (21.8%). The chi-squared test was used to evaluate the association between demographic characteristics and seeking medical advice. Participants with a single child were more likely than those with more than three children to take their child to the doctor (61.5% vs. 48.6%, respectively). Also, parents who don't have NE-afflicted children were more open to consider seeking medical advice for NE therapy (if their children developed it in the future) compared to parents who already have children with NE.

CONCLUSION

Parents in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia hold various misconceptions about the causes and treatment of NE. Only 52.1% of parents would take their child to see a doctor if wetting the bed and only 48.1% of parents were aware of effective treatments for NE. These results emphasize that healthcare practitioners need to provide proper information to raise public awareness of NE.

Eficácia E Custo-Utilidade De Intervenções Para O Tratamento Da Enurese Em Crianças E Adolescentes Sob A Perspectiva Do Sistema Único De Saúde Brasileiro: Effectiveness and Cost-Utility of Interventions for Enuresis Treatment in Children and Adolescents From the Brazilian Single Health System Perspective

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to estimate the cost-utility of effective interventions for enuresis treatment in children and adolescents and to calculate the incremental cost-utility ratio from the perspective of the Brazilian Unified Health System in a 1-year time horizon.

METHODS

The economic analysis is in 7 stages: (1) survey of evidence of treatments for enuresis, (2) performing the network meta-analysis, (3) estimation of the probability of cure, (4) cost-utility analysis, (5) model sensitivity analysis, (6) analysis of acceptability of interventions by acceptability curve, and (7) monitoring the technological horizon.

RESULTS

The association between desmopressin and oxybutynin is the therapeutic strategy with the highest probability of success in the treatment of enuresis in children and adolescents compared with placebo (relative risk [RR] 2.88; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.65-5.04), followed by the combination therapy between desmopressin and tolterodine (RR 2.13; 95% CI 1.13-4.02), alarm (RR 1.59; 95% CI 1.14-2.23), and neurostimulation (RR 1.43; 95% CI 1.04-1.96). Combination therapy between desmopressin and tolterodine was the only 1 considered not to be cost-effective. Neurostimulation, alarm therapy, and therapy had the respective incremental cost-utility ratio values: R$5931.68, R$7982.92, and R$29 050.56/quality-adjusted life-years.

CONCLUSION

Among the therapies that are on the borderline of efficiency, the combined therapy between desmopressin and oxybutynin presents the greatest incremental benefit at an incremental cost that is still feasible, given that it does not exceed the reference value of the cost-effectiveness threshold established in Brazil.

First-morning urine osmolality and nocturnal enuresis in children: A single-center prospective cohort study

PURPOSE

To investigate the treatment outcome of nocturnal enuresis (NE) according to first-morning urine osmolality (Uosm) before treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ninety-nine children (mean age, 7.2±2.1 y) with NE were enrolled in this retrospective study and divided into two groups according to first-morning Uosm results, that is, into a low Uosm group (<800 mOsm/L; 38 cases, 38.4%) or a high Uosm group (≥800 mOsm/L; 61 cases, 61.6%). Baseline parameters were obtained from frequency volume charts of at least 2 days, uroflowmetry, post-void residual volume, and a questionnaire for the presence of frequency, urgency, and urinary incontinence. Standard urotherapy and pharmacological treatment were administered initially in all cases. Enuresis frequency and response rates were analyzed at around 1 month and 3 months after treatment initiation.

RESULTS

The level of first-morning Uosm was 997.1±119.6 mOsm/L in high Uosm group and 600.9±155.9 mOsm/L in low Uosm group (p<0.001), and first-morning voided volume (p=0.021) and total voided volume (p=0.019) were significantly greater in the low Uosm group. Furthermore, a significantly higher percentage of children in the low Uosm group had a response rate of ≥50% (CR or PR) at 1 month (50.0% vs. 24.6%; p=0.010) and 3 months (63.2% vs. 36.1%; p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment response rates are higher for children with NE with a lower first-morning Uosm.

[Functional (Nonorganic) Enuresis and Daytime Urinary Incontinence in Children and Adolescents: Clinical Guideline for Assessment and Treatment]

Functional (Nonorganic) Enuresis and Daytime Urinary Incontinence in Children and Adolescents: Clinical Guideline for Assessment and Treatment Abstract: Objective: Enuresis and daytime urinary incontinence are common disorders in children and adolescents and are associated with incapacitation and a high rate of comorbid psychological disorders. This interdisciplinary guideline summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding somatic and psychiatric assessment and treatment. We formulate consensus-based, practical recommendations. Methods: The members of this guideline commission consisted of 18 professional associations. The guideline results from current literature searches, several online surveys, and consensus conferences based on standard procedures. Results: According to the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS), there are four different subtypes of nocturnal enuresis and nine subtypes of daytime urinary incontinence. Organic factors first have to be excluded. Clinical and noninvasive assessment is sufficient in most cases. Standard urotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. If indicated, one can add specific urotherapy and pharmacotherapy. Medication can be useful, especially in enuresis and urge incontinence. Psychological and somatic comorbid disorders must also be addressed. Conclusions: The recommendations of this guideline were passed with a high consensus. Interdisciplinary cooperation is especially important, as somatic factors and comorbid psychological disorders and symptoms need to be considered. More research is required especially regarding functional (nonorganic) daytime urinary incontinence.

Delineating the Diagnostic Concordance Between Pediatric Lower Urinary Symptoms Scoring and Voiding Diary in Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

This retrospective research endeavored to conduct a comparative evaluation of the Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Scoring (PLUTSS) system and the Voiding Diary (VD). The correlation between these diagnostic tools, their prognostic value for treatment outcomes in pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction (LUTD), and their relationship with patients' sociodemographic characteristics were also explored.

METHODOLOGY

The study data for the cohort established between December 2005 and September 2006 were obtained from a specialized thesis, while the subsequent expansion from 2022 to 2023 involved a prospective approach, including an additional 73 patients, resulting in a total of 113 pediatric patients (79 females and 34 males). Comprehensive diagnostic evaluations, such as urinalysis, urine culture, renal function tests, urinary tract ultrasound, uroflowmetry-electromyography (EMG), and post-voiding residual urine measurement (PVR), were conducted. The patient's symptoms were assessed using the Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (PLUTSS) and a two-day-three-night voiding diary.

RESULTS

The correlation between the PLUTSS and VD was not absolute but substantial concerning daytime frequency and incontinence. Notably, PLUTSS emerged as the primary predictor of treatment outcomes. No significant association was discerned between sociodemographic characteristics, such as socioeconomic status, sibling count, toilet training, school performance, patient personality, and LUTD diagnosis or prognosis.

CONCLUSION

The findings underscore the prognostic value of PLUTSS for treatment outcomes in pediatric LUTD. Although a significant correlation was observed between PLUTSS and VD, they are not interchangeable. As a result, concurrent utilization of both tools is endorsed for comprehensive diagnosis, follow-up, and treatment planning in pediatric LUTD.

Limited caffeine consumption as first-line treatment in managing primary monosymptomatic enuresis in children: how effective is it? A randomised clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

Evidence about the negative caffeine effect on enuresis in children remains understudied or poorly understood. The study aimed to investigate the effect of caffeine restriction on the improvement and severity of primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE).

DESIGN

Randomised clinical trial.

SETTING

Two referral hospitals in Tehran, Iran, from 2021 to 2023.

PATIENTS

Five hundred and thirty-four PMNE children aged 6-15 years (each group 267).

INTERVENTIONS

Amount of caffeine consumption was recorded by the feed frequency questionnaire and was estimated by Nutrition 4 software. Caffeine consumption per day in the intervention group was <30 mg, and in the control group, 80-110 mg. All children were asked to return 1 month later to check the recorded data. The ordinal logistic regression analysis was used to assay the effects of caffeine restriction on PMNE by relative risk (RR) at a 95% CI.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The effect of limited caffeine consumption on the improvement and severity of PMNE.

RESULTS

The mean age of the intervention and control groups was 10.9±2.3 and 10.5±2.5 years, respectively. The mean number of bed-wetting before caffeine restriction in the intervention and control group was 3.5 (SD 1.7) times/week and 3.4 (SD 1.9) times/week (p=0.91) and 1 month after intervention were 2.3 (SD 1.8) times/week and 3.2 (SD 1.9) times/week, respectively (p=0.001). Caffeine restriction significantly reduced the severity of enuresis in the intervention group. Fifty-four children (20.2%) improved (dry at night) in caffeine restriction and 18 children (6.7%) in the control group with RR 0.615 at 95% CI 0.521 to 0.726, p=0.001. The caffeine restriction significantly reduced the enuresis in children with a number-needed-to-treat benefit 7.417. It means you must treat 7.417 PMNE children with caffeine limitation to improve one child with enuresis (become dry).

CONCLUSION

Caffeine restriction can be helpful in reducing PMNE or its severity. Constructive limitation of caffeine is suggested as one of the first-line treatments in the management of PMNE.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

IRCT20180401039167N3.

[Enuresis: Perception and attitude in population of our country]

OBJECTIVE

To know the perception and attitude towards enuresis from families and caregivers with the aim of establishing a rational therapeutic plan.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A 25-question survey was performed among parents over 18years old with at least a child between 5 and 13years old, maintaining national representativeness in terms of residence, social class and age of the children. Data collection was performed in April 2021.

RESULTS

Data from 501 out of 626 sent surveys was obtained, mostly from middle-class families from Andalusia, Catalonia and the Community of Madrid. From all the participants, 47.9% knew about the existence of enuresis, although only 23.8% knew which was the medical term. Only 16.6% and 9.6% remembered that the pediatrician or the nurse, respectively, had referred to the condition at any time. Among the respondents with some knowledge about enuresis, their main information source were close cases (36.6%), media outlets (31.1%) and the pediatrician (27.8%). Parents would be very (35.3%) or somewhat (43.1%) worried in the event of an enuresis case. However, the level of knowledge was higher, and the level of concern was lower among parents with a child with enuresis in comparison to those without a case in their family.

CONCLUSION

Improving parent knowledge about enuresis and changing their perception towards this condition might be of importance to improve their attention and anticipate its resolution.

Can enuresis alarm therapy be managed by the families without the support of a nurse? A prospective study of a real-world sample

AIM

The alarm is the first-line treatment of nocturnal enuresis. However, the therapy is labour-intensive for both families and healthcare providers. Our aim was to see whether the treatment could be successfully used by the families, without support from healthcare providers.

METHODS

An alarm linked to an application on a parent's smartphone was used. The app recorded enuretic events and gave instructions. Group A were children supported by a nurse. Group B were patients whose families had bought the alarm and downloaded the app independently.

RESULTS

There were 196 children in group A and 202 in group B. The percentages of full responders, partial responders, non-responders and dropouts were 18.4%, 20.4%, 22.4% and 38.8% in group A and 13.4%, 11.4%, 14.9% and 60.4% in group B. The risk for dropping out of therapy was higher in group B (p < 0.001), whereas the chance for adherent children to become dry did not differ between the groups (p = 0.905).

CONCLUSION

For families who are able to adhere to alarm therapy the chance of success is just as good when managed independently as when supported by a nurse. But the latter children will have a greater chance of adhering to the full treatment.

Insecure attachment and its relationship with negative self perception in children with nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal Enuresis (NE) is considered as a multifactorial condition with a specific focus on psychological functioning regarding etiology. Various studies show that children with NE suffer from different types of self-esteem problems and insecure attachment styles. Nevertheless the relationship between these two psychological functions has not been adequately studied.

OBJECTIVE

Main objective of the current study is to evaluate self-perception and attachment profiles of enuretic children in relation with various sociodemographic parameters.

DESIGN

41 children with nocturnal enuresis and 40 age and sex matched healthy controls were compared in means of attachment using Kern's Security Scale and self-perception using Self-Perception Profile for Children measures.

RESULTS

Our results show that enuretic children suffer significantly more insecure attachment styles and negative self perception issues. Moreover enuretic children varied from healthy controls in means of number of siblings and birth rank.

DISCUSSION

Current study suggests that enuretic children should be evaluated for possible psychological difficulties like insecure attachment and self-esteem issues and proper interventions in these areas should be considered. Lower self-esteem as a well-known phenomenon in enuresis research may be addressed in relation with insecure attachment. Nevertheless our study have certain limitation; the possible psychiatric comorbidities from both study groups were excluded only with anamneses. Further the male dominance of the gender of the participants can be seen as a limitation.

CONCLUSION

The possible relationship between negative self perception and insecure attachment may serve as an important focus in means of etiology and interventions in NE.

Combination therapy (desmopressin plus oxybutynin) improves the response rate compared with desmopressin alone in patients with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis and nocturnal polyuria and absence of constipation predict the response to this treatment

Combination therapy (CT) (desmopressin plus oxybutynin) has been considered for the treatment of monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE). We designed our study with the aim to evaluate the response rate to CT compared with desmopressin alone (primary outcome) and to identify factors associated with the response to CT (secondary outcome). We prospectively enrolled children with MNE with absent/partial response after 3 months of evening treatment with 240 mcg of desmopressin. We defined the response rate to CT compared with desmopressin alone according to the standardization of terminology document of the International Children's Continence Society: no-response, < 50% reduction; partial response, 50 to 99% reduction; and complete response, 100% reduction of wet nights. Both partial response and complete response to CT were clustered for the analyses of this manuscript. The enrolled children treated with 240 mcg/evening of desmopressin had also an additional evening administration of 0.3 mg/kg oxybutynin. A follow-up was scheduled at 3 and 6 months after the beginning of CT. At 3 months, oxybutynin dose was augmented to 0.5 mg/kg in case of absent/partial response to CT. Nocturnal diuresis was measured in 5 wet nights prior the beginning of therapy with desmopressin. Nocturnal polyuria (NP) was defined as nocturnal urine production > 130% of the expected bladder capacity. All patients with constipation were treated with macrogol. We enrolled 81 children (35.8% females) with a mean age of 8.4 ± 2.3 years. Seventy-eight patients completed the follow-up. After the CT, 59/78 (75.6%) patients showed an improvement of the response with CT compared with desmopressin alone. At multivariate analysis, both NP in more than 1 night (OR = 8.5; 95% CI, 1.4-51.6; p = 0.02) and absence of constipation (OR = 7.1; 95% CI, 1.6-31.0; p = 0.009) resulted significant after Bonferroni correction.

CONCLUSIONS

CT determines an improvement of response compared to therapy with desmopressin alone in 75.6% of patients. Significant predictive factors of response to CT were presence of NP and absence of constipation.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Combination therapy (CT) (desmopressin plus anticholinergic drug) has been described as a therapeutic option for patients with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) not responding to desmopressin alone as first-line treatment. • Variable protocols and variable combination of drugs have been described with a response rate ranging from 44 to 76%.

WHAT IS NEW

• We found that 59 patients (75.6%) treated with evening administration of 240 mcg of sublingual desmopressin plus 0.3-0.5 mg/kg of oxybutynin had an improvement of response compared to treatment with desmopressin alone. • We add evidence that presence of frequently recurring nocturnal polyuria and absence of constipation are predictors of response to CT.

A prospective and randomized study comparing the use of alarms, desmopressin and imipramine in the treatment of monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

Monosymptomatic enuresis (MNE) results from a pathogenic triad that may include lack of vasopressin secretion during sleep, reduced functional bladder capacity and inability to wake up during sleep. The treatment of MNE can be performed through behavioral therapy, use of alarms or medications such as desmopressin and imipramine.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of different treatments of MNE.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective and randomized study comparing different intervention and a control group (receiving only behavior therapy) for MNE.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

age between 5 and 16 years old, with MNE, evaluated at the pediatric urology outpatient clinic of Hospital Infantil Menino Jesus. At first visit children were submitted to behavior therapy (urotherapy) for 3 months, children were subsequently characterized according to the ICCS as non-responders, partial responders, or full responders. Those partial responders or non-responders received a patient ID and were randomized to four groups: Alarm Group (G1), Desmopressin Group - DDAVP (G2), Imipramine Group (G3) and Control (G4). All groups were monitored monthly, for a period of 6 months. After 6 months, the children were reevaluated for MNE.

RESULTS

93 patients were enrolled. Mean age was 10.96 years with a standard deviation of 2.28 years, 59,1% were male. All groups had improvement in the number of dry nights (Table). Taking in account success the population full responders and partial responders: Alarm Group (G1) achieve success in 100% of cases, Desmopressin Group - DDAVP (G2) in 63.6% of cases, Imipramine Group (G3) in 73.7% of cases (Table 3). No drugs side effects were observed in both groups (G2 and G3), there was no dropout in patients who used alarms.

DISCUSSION

Our data suggests that the use of alarms is the most effective treatment of ENM with superior results when compared to imipramine and DDAVP. The small number of participants is a weakness of the study, as well as the lack of a voiding diary at the end of the study.

CONCLUSION

All therapeutics options utilized in the treatment of MNE are safe, effective and has a low rate of abandonment.

Abdomino-Pelvic Ultrasound Evaluation in Monosymptomatic Primary Nocturnal Enuresis

BACKGROUND

Enuresis is one of the most common childhood problems. Our study aimed to evaluate children with enuresis by renal bladder ultrasound (RBUS) to detect urological abnormalities and to compare the sonographic findings with control group.

METHODS

Our study included 30 children with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE). Another 30 matched children with normal continence to urine were assigned as controls. The 2 groups were subjected to urine analysis, serum creatinine, and RBUS.

RESULTS

Ultrasound showed abnormality in 10% of case group, which was not significantly different from controls (p = 1.000).

CONCLUSION

Abnormalities discovered by ultrasonography in PMNE are more than in control group but without statistical significance and do not require invasive diagnostic tests. Children with sonographic abnormalities appear to be more resistant to treatment. We concluded that ultrasound is not necessary in MPNE and should be done in patients resistant to treatment.

Management of treatment-resistant nocturnal enuresis

Nocturnal enuresis is defined as intermittent urinary incontinence during sleep in children 5 years of age and older, occurring at least once a month for at least 3 months. In Japan, pediatricians who do not specialize in nocturnal enuresis have become more proactive in treating the condition since 2016, when the guidelines for treating it were revised for the first time in 12 years. For monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis, the first step is lifestyle guidance, with a focus on the restriction of fluid intake at night; however, if lifestyle guidance does not decrease the frequency of nocturnal enuresis, aggressive treatment should be added. The first choice of aggressive treatment is oral desmopressin, an antidiuretic hormone preparation, or alarm therapy. However, there remain patients whose wet nights do not decrease with oral desmopressin or alarm therapy. In such cases, it is necessary to reconfirm the method of desmopressin administration and check for factors that may decrease the efficacy of desmopressin. If alarm therapy does not increase the number of dry nights, it is possible that the patient is fundamentally unsuitable for alarm therapy. If dry nights do not increase with oral desmopressin or alarm therapy, the next treatment strategy should be considered immediately to keep the patient motivated for treatment.

The efficacy of standard urotherapy in the treatment of nocturnal enuresis in children: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Standard urotherapy in children with nocturnal enuresis (NE) is first-line treatment according to the current International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) guidelines. ICCS defines standard urotherapy as information and demystification, instruction in how to resolve lower urinary tract dysfunction, lifestyle advice, registration of symptoms and voiding habits, and support and encouragement. These interventions often are time consuming and some aspects of urotherapy, such as fluid restrictions, can be a frustrating process for a child, which emphasizes the importance of clarifying their relevance. The purpose of this review is to perform a systematic search in literature to evaluate the use of standard urotherapy in the treatment of children with primary NE (PNE).

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic literature search was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL based on the key concepts of standard urotherapy and NE. We identified 2,476 studies. After a systematic selection process using the Covidence tool, 39 studies were included. The quality of the studies was assessed by the QualSyst Checklist. Our protocol adheres to the PRISMA statement and was registered in PROSPERO database (CRD42020185611).

RESULTS

Most of the 39 included studies scored low in quality. All studies combined several urotherapy interventions and studied different study populations. Twenty-two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included, which reported 0-92% of children being dry after urotherapy treatment. Three RCTs, all individualizing and optimizing drinking and voiding during the day and practicing optimal toilet posture, scored higher in quality based on the QualSyst score, and reported few children experiencing complete resolution of NE (5-33%). Eight studies compared the efficacy of urotherapy to a control group, however, conflicting results were found.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review presents available literature in the field of standard urotherapy in the treatment of children with PNE. One possible explanation for low efficacy rates of urotherapy in NE is the large heterogeneity of the study populations and interventions. Additionally, the intervention period and the intensity of intervention can have an impact on the outcome.

CONCLUSION

The number of clinical studies on standard urotherapy in children with NE is limited and many of them are of poor quality. High quality research in a well-defined NE population is needed to establish the role of standard urotherapy in first-line treatment of children with NE or as an add-on to other first line treatments. We conclude that at present there is insufficient evidence for recommending standard urotherapy to children with PNE as a first line treatment modality.

Relationship between nocturnal enuresis and sleep in children and adolescents

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a multifactorial and complex condition. One less understood factor in its pathophysiology is the enuretic inability to wake up when the bladder is full (impaired arousal).

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the relationship between sleep and NE in children and adolescents.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed following the PRISMA guidelines, and the electronic databases MEDLINE (via PubMed) and SCOPUS were searched until March 2022. Eligibility criteria were studies that recruited patients aged five-17 years with a diagnosis of NE according to the International Child Continence Society (ICCS), Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-5), or International Classification Criteria of Sleep Disorders-Third edition (ICSD-3) who had their sleep assessed using validated questionnaires and/or polysomnography. The tool used to analyze the risk of bias in the included studies was the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of exposure.

RESULTS

Of 1582 citations screened, nine were included, giving 1685 participants, 581 with NE. All studies were observational and half had a low risk of bias. Four studies evaluated sleep by questionnaires only; two used questionnaires and polysomnography; two used only polysomnography, and one used sleep logs and actigraphy. Sleep questionnaires showed that children with enuresis had more sleep problems than controls, especially parasomnias, breathing disorders, and daytime sleepiness. Among the polysomnography parameters, the sleep stage architecture and periodic limb movements during sleep had conflicting data between the two studies.

LIMITATIONS

The studies evaluated sleep through heterogeneous tools. They used different questionnaires; even those considered by polysomnography did not record the same channels.

CONCLUSION

It seems that enuretic children and adolescents sleep differently from those who are non-enuretic. More studies are needed to clarify the best way to assess sleep and better understand this relationship. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021266338. There was no funding.

An evaluation of parental attitudes and attachment in children with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis: A case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Enuresis is a common childhood disorder associated with the lack of bladder control that would be expected based on the child's age or developmental stage. Enuresis affects the lives of both children and their parents due to the burden it entails in daily life.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the dimensions of attachment between children with enuresis and their mothers, as well as the relationship with parental attitudes.

METHODS

This study included 70 children were diagnosed with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) based on the guidelines of the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) along with 70 children with not enuresis and any psychiatric disorders. We asked the mothers of all participants to complete the Parental Attitude Research Instrument, and the children to complete The Experiences in Close Relationships Scale Revised - Middle Childhood.

RESULTS

Both groups in our study were well balanced in terms of gender, age, and sociodemographic data. Children with enuresis were found to score higher on the anxiety and avoidance dimensions of the attachment scale with statistical significance (p < 0.01). Also, on the scale completed by the mothers of children with enuresis, the subtests indicating overprotective parenting and strict discipline presented significant differences (p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION

Data obtained in our study demonstrate that enuresis can have a negative effect on the mother-child attachment and parental attitudes. The use of harsh language or punishment by the mother in response to the failure of the child to achieve nocturnal dryness may affect the attachment between the mother and the child, and cause the child to experience negative emotions such as shame, anxiety, embarrassment, frustration, and loneliness.

CONCLUSION

We think that it would be useful to evaluate the mother-child attachment and the crisis experienced by the family after each wetting incidence in combination with parental attitudes and behaviors in the treatment of enuresis cases.

Relationship between toilet training process and primary nocturnal enuresis in children and adolescents - A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) affects the quality of life of children and families and may lead to low self-esteem and social isolation. The pathophysiology of enuresis is multifactorial. This systematic review aimed to investigate the relationship between toilet training (TT) and PNE in children and adolescents.

METHODS

We searched for articles about TT and PNE in MEDLINE (via PubMed), SCOPUS and WEB of SCIENCE databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement was used to guide the systematic review. Prior to the study, the review protocol was registered and approved in PROSPERO under the protocol CRD42021270976. The Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Exposures (ROBINS-E) was used to analyze the biases of the select studies.

RESULTS

A total of 570 studies were initially selected. Of these, eight articles were included in this systematic review, with a total number of 5990 participants aged between 5 and 18 years diagnosed with PNE. Seven of the eight articles reported that prolonged use of disposable diapers for more than one-year, late initiation of the TT process or non-acceptance of the Assisted Infant TT or Elimination Communication approach, use of coercive approaches, and complete of TT after 24 months of age increase the risk of enuresis. Only one of the selected studies did not find an association between the start of TT after 24 months of age and the presence of isolated PNE. Three studies did not mention the approach used in the TT process.

CONCLUSION

Most of the articles reviewed showed that prolonged diaper use, delay in the start or completion of the TT and use of coercive approaches increase the risk of enuresis. On the other hand, one study showed no relationship between the start of TT after 24 months of age and the presence of isolated enuresis.

Relationship between primary monosymptomatic enuresis and process toilet training: a case-control

OBJECTIVE

Primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) is a prevalent condition in childhood, and the pathophysiology is multifactorial. This study investigated the relationship between the toilet training process (TT) and PMNE in children and adolescents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A case-control study was carried out from 2015 to 2020. The presence of PMNE was identified according to International Children's Continence Society criteria. A semi-structured questionnaire was applied to assess TT.

RESULTS

The study included 103 children and adolescents with PMNE and 269 participants with normal psychomotor development without PMNE (control group [CG]). Readiness signals were more remembered and less frequent in participants with PMNE (p=0.001) when compared to control group. No differences were found between the groups regarding the onset age of the daytime TT (p= 0.10), the nocturnal TT (p=0.08), the acquisition of daytime continence (p=0.06), and the type of equipment used for the TT (p=0.99). The use of Child-Oriented approach in group of children with enuresis was lower than in controls [87.4% (90/103) versus 94% (250/266)], respectively (OR= 0.44, 95% CI 0.21-0.94, p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

The age of onset of TT, acquisition of daytime continence, and the type of equipment were not associated with higher occurrence of PMNE. On the other hand, the Child-Oriented approach was a protective factor for the occurrence of PMNE.

Assessing the outcomes of parasacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PTENS) in the treatment of enuresis in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials

INTRODUCTION

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a common pathology in children that can have significant behavioral, emotional, and social impacts on a child's life. Recent studies have assessed PTENS as a potential treatment method for NE, particularly in those who do not respond to initial first-line treatments. Literature has shown varying results with regard to its success. There has been no systematic review and meta-analysis to date assessing outcomes following this treatment.

OBJECTIVES

Despite multiple studies showing the potential benefits of PTENS in NE, there has been no consensus regarding its efficacy. The aim of this study was to systematically analyze the effects of PTENS on children with NE.

STUDY DESIGN

In September 2021, a search of PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library was carried out for studies relating to outcomes following PTENS in children with NE. Studies included were original publication English language randomized controlled trial (RCT's) with at least ten children receiving parasacral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PTENS). After assessing for relevant studies, data were collated and analyzed from the included studies. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane seven domain assessment. Our primary outcome was response and nonresponse to treatment. These results were combined in a fixed effects meta-analysis model to obtain an overall estimate of the success rate. Information regarding demographics was also collected. There was no external funding for this review.

RESULTS

Of 145 studies found initially, four RCT's (208 children) were included. The weighted mean rate of full response to active PTENS was 10.8% (0%-19%). All studies considered, meta-analysis showed no difference between PTENS and controls (RR: 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI: 0.37-1.32]). Subgroup analysis of monosymptomatic enuresis showed no effect of PTENS compared to controls (RR = 0.58, 95% CI: [0.24-1.42]). When grouped, studies comparing PTENS to sham/behavioral treatment showed no benefit compared to controls (RR = 0.81, 95% CI: [0.05-12.53]) and those comparing PTENS to biofeedback/interferential current (IFC) showed no difference to controls (RR = 0.69, 95% CI: [0.36-1.33]). There was no evidence of a difference between cases and controls between these latter subgroups (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: [0.37-1.32]).

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that PTENS has no clear benefit in the management of children with NE compared to controls. Subgroup analysis showed that its use in monosymptomatic NE has no clear advantage. However, this review has highlighted the need for further high quality studies. Limitations to this review included a relatively small sample size and the use of prior or concomitant therapies.

What do cochrane systematic reviews say about interventions for enuresis in children and adolescents? An overview of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVE

To conduct an overview of Cochrane systematic reviews about treatment alternatives for children and/or adolescents with enuresis.

SOURCES

An overview of Cochrane systematic reviews about interventions for enuresis in children/adolescents was developed between September/2021 and December/2021. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO and the search was conducted only in the Cochrane Library database without any restriction. Reviews involving any type of intervention for the treatment of enuresis in children/adolescents were included. The risk of bias was assessed using Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) and the quality of reviews was assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR-2).

SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS

Seven systematic reviews were identified. Based on the ROBIS assessment, all reviews were classified as low risk of bias. According to the AMSTAR-2 assessment, the three oldest systematic reviews were rated as critically low quality, one review was moderate quality, and the three most recent systematic reviews were rated as high quality. No difference was shown between alarm and desmopressin for a complete response to therapy after treatment (RR = 1.30; 95%CI: 0.92 to 1.84), but alarm use is related to a lower risk of adverse events (RR = 0.38; 95%CI: 0.20 to 0.71). There is a moderate certainty that the association between imipramine and oxybutynin is better than placebo to reduce the risk of children who do not achieve 14 consecutive dry nights after treatment (RR = 0.43; 95%CI: 0.23 to 0.78).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no difference between alarm and desmopressin for enuresis treatment. However, alarm therapy had fewer adverse events than desmopressin. Moreover, combination therapy between imipramine and oxybutynin is better than placebo.

Fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and constipation does not make them dry at night

BACKGROUND

Constipation, daytime incontinence and nocturnal enuresis often overlap. Treatment of constipation has been shown to be an important aspect of therapy for children with daytime incontinence. However, the value of fecal disimpaction, as a part of constipation therapy, in children with enuresis has not been evaluated.

AIM

Our aim was to evaluate the antienuretic effect of fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and concomitant constipation.

METHODS

The bladder and bowel function was assessed noninvasively in children aged six to ten years who sought help for enuresis for the first time. If they were constipated according to the Rome IV criteria or had a rectal diameter exceeding 30 mm, as assessed by ultrasound, they were given standard evacuation with mini-enemas and macrogol therapy for at least two weeks. Enuresis frequency was documented 14 nights preceding and following therapy.

RESULTS

In total, 66 children (20 girls, 46 boys) were evaluated, 23 (35%) of whom were constipated. There were no differences in age, sex or baseline bladder function between the two groups. The enuresis frequency per two weeks was 9.8 ± 4.1 nights before and 9.3 ± 5.1 nights after constipation therapy (p = 0.43).

DISCUSSION

This study found that fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis who are also constipated did not alleviate nocturnal enuresis. Bowel problems may still need to be addressed but the child should not be given the false hope that this approach alone will make them dry at night. It might be that evidenced based therapies, such as the enuresis alarm and desmopressin, could be less efficient in children with enuresis and constipation unless their bowel disturbance is first properly addressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Fecal disimpaction in children with enuresis and concomitant constipation will, by itself, not make the children dry at night.