An Economic Evaluation of a Web-Based Management Support System for Children With Urinary Incontinence: The eADVICE Trial

PURPOSE

Children who require specialist outpatient care typically wait substantial periods during which their condition may progress, making treatment more difficult and costly. Timely and effective therapy during this period may reduce the need for lengthy specialist care. This study evaluated the cost-effectiveness of an individualized, evidence-informed, web-based program for children with urinary incontinence awaiting a specialist appointment (Electronic Advice and Diagnosis Via the Internet following Computerized Evaluation [eADVICE]) compared to usual care. eADVICE was supervised by a primary physician and delivered by an embodied conversational agent.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A trial-based cost-effectiveness analysis was performed from the perspective of the health care funder as a substudy of eADVICE, a multicenter, waitlist-controlled, randomized trial. Outcomes measures were incremental cost per incremental change in continence status and quality of life on an intention-to-treat basis. Uncertainty was examined using cost-effectiveness planes, scenarios, and 1-way sensitivity analyses. Costs were valued in 2021 Australian dollars.

RESULTS

The use of eADVICE was found to be cost saving and beneficial (dominant) over usual care, with a higher proportion of children dry over 14 days at 6 months (risk difference 0.13; 95%CI 0.02-0.23, P = .03) and mean health care costs reduced by $188 (95%CI $61-$315) per participant.

CONCLUSIONS

An individualized, evidence-informed, web-based program delivered by an embodied conversational agent is likely cost saving for children with urinary incontinence awaiting a specialist appointment. The potential economic impact of such a program is favorable and substantial, and may be transferable to outpatient clinic settings for other chronic health conditions.

Transition in enuresis patients: Identifying the gaps and opportunities for the future

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal enuresis is generally considered a children's condition, yet it may persist 1%-2% in adolescence and early adulthood. Refractory patients often demand follow-up by multidisciplinary teams, which is only restricted to some of the expert tertiary centers. However, there are no standardized transition programs/guidelines when follow-up must be passed from pediatric to adult healthcare providers.

AIM, MATERIALS & METHODS

To investigate this issue, we conducted a literature search on enuresis transition, which resulted in no articles. We, therefore, proceeded in a rescue search strategy: we explored papers on transition programs of conditions that may be related and/or complicated by enuresis, nocturia, or other urinary symptoms (chronic diseases, CKD, bladder dysfunction, kidney transplant, neurogenic bladder).

RESULTS

These programs emphasize the need for a multidisciplinary approach, a transition coordinator, and the importance of patient and parent participation, practices that could be adopted in enuresis. The lack of continuity in enuresis follow-up was highlighted when we investigated who was conducting research and publishing on enuresis and nocturia. Pediatric disciplines (50%) are mostly involved in children's studies, and urologists in the adult ones (37%).

DISCUSSION

We propose a stepwise approach for the transition of children with enuresis from pediatric to adult care, depending on the clinical subtype: from refractory patients who demand more complex, multidisciplinary care and would benefit from a transition coordinator up to children/young adults cured of enuresis but who persist in having or present lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS)/nocturia later on. In any case, the transition process should be initiated early at the age of 12-14 years, with adequate information to the patient and parents regarding relapses or LUTS/nocturia occurrence and of the future treating general practitioner on the enuresis characteristics and comorbidities of the patient.

Enuresis in young offenders - a study on prevalence and mental health comorbidity

Background

Enuresis is a common disorder in the school-age period, and is often associated with a variety of behavioral, psychological, and social problems. While early studies suggested an association between enuresis and delinquent behavior, there has been no recent research assessing the prevalence of enuresis and its comorbid psychopathology in young offenders. The aim of this study was to therefore assess the prevalence of enuresis and its associated psychiatric comorbidity in incarcerated young offenders.

Methods

The prevalence of past and current enuresis and comorbid psychopathology was assessed using a semi-structured psychiatric interview and self-reports from 366 incarcerated male young offenders [age 14 to 19 years (mean age = 16.4)] from Northern Russia.

Results

Seventy-three (20.0%) adolescents reported a previous history of enuresis, and in addition almost 10% of the youth reported current enuresis symptoms. Delinquent youth with enuresis did not significantly differ from other youth in the prevalence of comorbid psychiatric diagnoses when assessed by a clinical diagnostic interview, but had significantly higher levels of self-reported mental health problems, and suicidal ideation and attempts.

Conclusion

Problems with enuresis are common among delinquent youth and may be associated with increased mental health problems. Given the potentially increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior in young offenders with enuresis, comprehensive mental health screening of those who are detected with this condition should be considered in the juvenile justice system.

A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Web-Based Management Support System for Children With Urinary Incontinence: The eADVICE Trial

PURPOSE

Children referred to specialist outpatient clinics by primary care providers often have long waiting times before being seen. We assessed whether an individualized, web-based, evidence-informed management support for children with urinary incontinence while waiting reduced requests for specialist appointments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A multicenter, waitlisted randomized controlled trial was conducted for children (5-18 years) with urinary incontinence referred to tertiary pediatric continence clinics. Participants were randomized to the web-based eHealth program electronic Advice and Diagnosis Via the Internet following Computerized Evaluation (eADVICE), which used an embodied conversational agent to engage with the child at the time of referral (intervention) or 6 months later (control). The primary outcome was the proportion of participants requesting a clinic appointment at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included persistent incontinence, and the Paediatric incontinence Questionnaire (PinQ) score.

RESULTS

From 2018 to 2020, 239 children enrolled, with 120 randomized to eADVICE and 119 to the control arm. At baseline, participants' mean age was 8.8 years (SD 2.2), 62% were males, mean PinQ score was 5.3 (SD 2.2), 36% had daytime incontinence, and 97% had nocturnal enuresis. At 6 months, 78% of eADVICE participants vs 84% of controls requested a clinic visit (relative risk 0.92, 95% CI 0.79, 1.06, P = .3), and 23% eADVICE participants vs 10% controls were completely dry (relative risk 2.23, 95% CI 1.10, 4.50, P = .03). The adjusted mean PinQ score was 3.5 for eADVICE and 3.9 for controls (MD -0.37, 95% CI -0.71, -0.03, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

The eADVICE eHealth program for children awaiting specialist appointments doubled the proportion who were dry at 6 months and improved quality of life but did not reduce clinic appointment requests.

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.

The cost of lifelong LUTS-A systematic literature review

BACKGROUND

Lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) are highly prevalent and very bothersome. To support the best possible allocation of health care resources and to avoid unnecessary expenditures, it is important to understand and quantify the wide-ranging health care costs affecting people suffering from LUTS. We aimed at creating a foundation for exploring the cost of LUTS.

METHOD

In this systematic literature review, we explored the costs of illness of the LUTS umbrella. We used the online literature review tool Silvi.ai for transparent decision-making and literature management.

RESULTS

A total of 1821 original articles were screened. Forty had explored the cost of illness of a LUTS disease since 2013. The studies were conducted in 18 countries. A number of different study designs were applied, including both retrospective and prospective studies. In total, seven LUTS indications were explored. None of them focused on lifelong LUTS. None of them were conducted in infants or children. Eighty-two percent were conducted in adults and 18% in frail elderly. Most cost of illness studies focused on the cost of hospitalization and use of medicine.

CONCLUSION

We have created the groundwork for understanding the cost of LUTS illness. To fully understand the cost of illness of lifelong LUTS, the main gap in research is to investigate the cost of LUTS in infants and children.

Traditional and innovative interventions in the management of enuresis

Introduction

Enuresis (NE) is a socially stigmatising and stressful condition affecting children's and parent's quality of life. The aim of this review was to evaluate and summarize the current knowledge about the pharmacological and non-pharmacological traditional and innovative treatments in children with NE.

Material and methods

We examined the following bibliographic electronic databases: PubMed and the Cochrane Library, from January 2000 until July 2023. The search was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) (8) and was limited to English-language papers that focused on enuresis in patients under 18 years old. Each paper that met the eligibility criteria was reviewed and analyzed in full text by three authors and any discrepancies among them were solved by debate. Due to the heterogeneity of the articles examined, we focused on a qualitative analysis.

Results

Overall, we identified 560 records through database searching. As first step, we excluded 46 articles in non-English language, 6 records whose related articles were not available, 8 articles concerning ongoing trials and 210 duplicated papers. As second step, we eliminated 215 records by evaluating only title and abstract because they did not match the inclusive criteria we mentioned before. Of the remaining 75 studies, we excluded 34 through a further discussion among authors upon the reliability of data. Thus, 41 selected articles were included in the review.

Conclusions

Multiple treatment approaches, both pharmacological and non pharmacological, have been established and validated to reduce signs and symptoms of NE and improve quality of life and the social and emotional discomfort experienced by children. The aim of pediatrician is to identify the right therapy protocol for very single child, evaluating the best approach for him and the family.

Prevalence of nocturnal enuresis among children of Aseer region in Saudi Arabia

Introduction

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) in children is a very common problem managed in pediatric urology. In this study, we present the prevalence of NE in children in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia.

Methodology

This study was conducted as a descriptive cross-sectional survey to estimate the prevalence of NE among 555 Saudi children aged 5-15 years in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia. Data collection was done through a questionnaire, which included questions on sociodemographic data, personal knowledge, enuresis-related characteristics, risk factors, and management modalities.

Results

This study identified a prevalence of enuresis of 24% of the study population, most of whom were boys. The majority of the parents had a high educational level. Clinical characteristics of the study population showed: 9% have a family history of NE, 2.2% have a history of neurological disorder, 10.0% have a history of urinary tract infections, 66.8% have associated daytime urgency, 67% have urine-holding behavior, and 19.5% have associated daytime enuresis of the study population.

Conclusion

Our study found that 24% of children in the Aseer region in Saudi Arabia have NE. Our study finding helps us to understand the prevalence of NE in Aseer region in Saudi Arabia, and this can be applied to other regions in the kingdom. Furthermore, this finding helps us to understand the need to raise awareness in the community about NE and the need to educate the nonpediatric urologist health-care provider about the best management practice for NE.

The association of lower urinary tract symptoms with schizophrenia and its treatments: A narrative review

BACKGROUND

A higher incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in people with schizophrenia compared to the general population is often suggested. However, it is not clear whether this is a genuine association, and whether it is a direct result of schizophrenia itself, or a side-effect of certain antipsychotics.

METHODS

We undertook a narrative review evaluating how the published literature reports the relationship between LUTS and schizophrenia and its treatments. We searched Embase, Ovid Emcare, and Ovid MEDLINE(R) ALL to August 2022, limited to the English language. We selected the following search terms: schizophrenia, schizophrenic, LUTS, overactive bladder, urinary urgency, urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, enuresis, nocturnal enuresis, and voiding dysregulation. We identified seven domains for assessment in advance of commencing the review. These were the categorization, description, and treatment status of schizophrenia; evaluation of LUTS; categorization of LUTS confounders; recapturing of the disease states of both schizophrenia and LUTS after therapies; assessment of the association between LUTS and schizophrenia and/or antipsychotics.

RESULTS

The association between LUTS and schizophrenia was poorly described. The evidence was low quality and focused predominantly on urinary incontinence as an antipsychotic side effect, neglecting other LUTS. The status of schizophrenia was often incompletely characterized, and no papers made use of a bladder diary or LUTS-specific questionnaires to assess symptoms. No papers collected information about LUTS in patients not on antipsychotics, nor did any thoroughly evaluate the influence of confounding variables. Despite the tendency of symptoms and severity of both conditions to fluctuate over time, no studies fully assessed the status of both schizophrenia and LUTS at baseline, therapy initiation, and follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

It is not possible to state whether there is an association between LUTS and schizophrenia or its treatments. This review highlights the need to improve research and clinical management of the urinary tract in schizophrenia, with meticulously designed longitudinal studies.

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.

The role of renal circadian biorhythms in lifelong LUTS

INTRODUCTION

This article delves into the intricate relationship between kidney function, diuresis, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) throughout the transitions of the human lifespan. It explores circadian regulation of urine production, maturation of renal function from birth to adulthood, and effects of aging on kidney function and LUTS. The complex connections between these factors are highlighted, offering insights into potential interventions and personalized management strategies.

METHODS

An international panel of seven experts engaged in online discussions, focusing on kidney function, diuresis, and LUTS throughout life. This manuscript summarizes expert insights, literature reviews, and findings presented during a webinar and subsequent discussions.

RESULTS

Renal function undergoes significant maturation from birth to adulthood, with changes in glomerular filtration rate, diuresis, and tubular function. A circadian rhythm in urine production is established during childhood. Adolescents and young adults can experience persistent enuresis due to lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and complex physiological changes. In older adults, age-related alterations in kidney function disrupt the circadian rhythm of diuresis, contributing to nocturnal polyuria and LUTS.

CONCLUSION

The interplay between kidney function, diuresis, and LUTS is crucial in understanding lifelong urinary health. Bridging the gap between pediatric and adult care is essential to address enuresis in adolescents and young adults effectively. For older adults, recognizing the impact of aging on renal function and fluid balance is vital in managing nocturia. This holistic approach provides a foundation for developing innovative interventions and personalized treatments to enhance quality of life for individuals with LUTS across all stages of life.

Urodynamic findings in children with primary refractory nocturnal enuresis: 10 years' experience of a tertiary center

Background/Aim

To identify correlations between urodynamic study (UDS) findings and urinary symptoms in children with refractory monosymptomatic and nonmonosymptomatic primary nocturnal enuresis.

Materials and Methods

A total of 96 neurologically normal children were enrolled, 44 consecutive boys and 51 consecutive girls, aged 5-18 years, of whom 41 (38.8%) had refractory monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) and 55 (61.2%) had refractory non-MNE (NMNE). We assessed the urodynamics of all children to detect any underlying bladder overactivity. A comparative analysis was carried out between the two groups of patients.

Results

Detrusor overactivity (DO), low bladder capacity, low compliance, and increased postvoid residual (PVR) were identified in 70 (72.9%), 35 (36.5%), 43, and 76 (79.2%) patients, respectively. The mean bladder compliance was 21.66 ± 14.52 mL/cmH2O (2-75 cmH2O). Of the NMNE patients, 50 (90.9%) had abnormal urodynamic findings, while 40 (97.5%) had abnormal urodynamic findings in the MNE group. There was a statistically significant relationship between NMNE and both increased PVR and abnormal voiding patterns. Both high PVR and DO were significantly associated with obstructive urinary symptoms. Constipation and history of urinary tract infection (UTI) did not significantly correlate with UDS abnormality (p = 1.0 and p = 0.49, respectively).

Conclusion

There was a high prevalence of bladder function disorders in both refractory MNE and NMNE patients in our study. This included small functional capacity, low bladder compliance, and marked DO. A nocturnal enuresis may be the only presenting symptom, however, it may be associated with bladder overactivity, UTI, and constipation; the UDS findings may aid in guiding the assessment and treatment of children suffering from primary refractory nocturnal enuresis and its association with bladder and bowel symptoms.

Relationship between elimination disorders and internalizing-externalizing problems in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Elimination disorders are highly prevalent in childhood and often associated with clinically relevant comorbid psychological disorders. The aim of this study is to determine if, and to what extent, children with elimination disorders show higher internalizing and externalizing problems than their healthy peers.

Methods

A multistep literature search was performed from database inception until May 1st, 2022. PRISMA/MOOSE-compliant systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42022303555) were used to identify studies reporting on internalizing and/or externalizing symptoms in children with an elimination disorder and a healthy control (HC) group. First, a systematic review was provided. Second, where data allowed for it, a quantitative meta-analysis with random effects model was conducted to analyze the differences between the elimination disorder and the HC groups for internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Effect size was standardized mean difference. Meta-regression analyses were conducted to examine the effect of sex, age, and study quality. Funnel plots were used to detect a publication bias. Where found, the trim and fill method was used to correct it.

Results

36 articles were included, 32 of them reporting on enuresis (n = 3244; mean age = 9.4; SD = 3.4; 43.84% female) and 7 of them on encopresis (n = 214; mean age = 8.6; SD = 2.3; 36.24% female). Children with an elimination disorder presented significantly lower self-concept (ES:0.42; 95%CI [0.08; 9.76]; p = 0.017) and higher symptom scores for thought problems (ES:-0.26; 95%CI: -0.43;-0.09]; p = 0.003), externalizing symptoms (ES: -0.20; 95%CI [-0.37;-0.03]; p = 0.020), attention problems (ES:-0.37; 95%CI [-0.51;-0.22]; p = 0.0001), aggressive behavior (ES:-0.33; 95%CI [-0.62;-0.04]; p = 0.025) and social problems (ES:-0.39; 95%CI [-0.58;-0.21]; p = 0.0001). Significant publication biases were found across several of the studied domains. No significant effect of sex, age or quality of the study score was found.

Conclusions

Children with an elimination disorder may have significant internalizing and externalizing problems, as well as impaired self-concept. It is recommendable to screen for them in children with enuresis or encopresis and provide appropriate interventions.

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.

[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.

Identifying Targets for Innovation in Amazon Reviews of Bedwetting Alarms: Thematic Analysis

BACKGROUND

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is a frequent diagnosis in pediatric and adolescent populations with an estimated prevalence of around 15% at the age of 6 years. NE can have a substantial impact on multiple health domains. Bedwetting alarms, which typically consist of a sensor and moisture-activated alarm, are a common treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine areas of satisfaction versus dissatisfaction reported by the parents and caregivers of children using current bedwetting alarms.

METHODS

Using the search term "bedwetting alarms" on the Amazon marketplace, products with >300 reviews were included. For each product, the 5 reviews ranked the "most helpful" for each star category were selected for analysis. Meaning extraction method was applied to identify major themes and subthemes. A percent skew was calculated by summing the total number of mentions of each subtheme,+1 for a positive mention, 0 for a neutral mention, and -1 for a negative mention, and dividing this total by the number of reviews in which that particular subtheme was observed. Subanalyses were performed for age and gender.

RESULTS

Of 136 products identified, 10 were evaluated based on the selection criteria. The main themes identified across products were long-term concerns, marketing, alarm systems, and device mechanics and features. The subthemes identified as future targets for innovation included alarm accuracy, volume variability, durability, user-friendliness, and adaptability to girls. In general, durability, alarm accuracy, and comfort were the most negatively skewed subthemes (with a negative skew of -23.6%, -20.0%, and -12.4% respectively), which are indicative of potential areas for improvement. Effectiveness was the only substantially positively skewed subtheme (16.8%). Alarm sound and device features were positively skewed for older children, whereas ease of use had a negative skew for younger children. Girls and their caretakers reported negative experiences with devices that featured cords, arm bands, and sensor pads.

CONCLUSIONS

This analysis provides an innovation roadmap for future device design to improve patient and caregiver satisfaction and compliance with bedwetting alarms. Our results highlight the need for additional options in alarm sound features, as children of different ages have divergent preferences in this domain. Additionally, girls and their parents and caretakers provided more negative overall reviews regarding the range of current device features compared to boys, indicating a potential focus area for future development. The percent skew showed that subthemes were often more negatively skewed toward girls, with the ease of use being -10.7% skewed for boys versus -20.5% for girls, and comfort being -7.1% skewed for boys versus -29.4% for girls. Put together, this review highlights multiple device features that are targets for innovation to ensure translational efficacy regardless of age, gender, or specific family needs.

Parasacral transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation versus urotherapy in primary monosymptomatic enuresis: A prospective randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the clinical response of parasacral transcutaneous electrical neural stimulation (parasacral TENS) associated with urotherapy in children with primary monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (PMNE) compared to urotherapy alone.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective controlled clinical trial enrolled 72 children over 5 years of age with PMNE. Children were randomly divided into two groups, control group (CG), treated with urotherapy and scapular stimulation, and experimental group (EG), treated with urotherapy and parasacral TENS. In both groups, 20 sessions were performed, 3 times weekly, for 20 min each, with 10 Hz frequency, 700 μS pulse width and intesity determinated by the patient threshold. The percentages of dry nights were analyzed for 14 days before treatment (T0), after the 20th session (T1), 15 (T2), 30 (T3), 60 (T4), and 90 (T5) days after the end of the sessions. Patients of both groups were followed with intervals of 2 weeks in the first month and monthly for three consecutive months.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight enuretic children, 14 girls (50%) with a mean age of 9.09 ± 2.23 years completed the study. There was no difference in mean age between groups. Mean percentage of dry nights in EG at T0 was 36%, at T1 49%, at T2 54%, at T3 54%, at T4 54%, and 57% at T5; while in CG, these percentages were 28%, 39%, 37%, 35%, 36%, and 36%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Parasacral TENS associated with urotherapy improves the percentage of dry nights in children with PMNE, although no patient had complete resolution of symptoms in this study.

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.

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.

[The problem of comorbid disorders in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: clinical cases]

The problem of comorbid disorders in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered, which occur in at least 60% of patients and lead to additional difficulties in intra-family, school and social adaptation. Children and adolescents with ADHD have a wide range of neurological and somatic disorders caused by complex polygenic pathogenetic mechanisms. Among the pathologies associated with ADHD in this cohort of children, neurotic and anxiety manifestations, motor disorders: dyspraxia, discoordination, impaired gross and fine motor skills, tics, behavioral disorders, enuresis, tension cephalgia are common disorders. Treatment of ADHD should be pathogenetic, taking into account the main symptoms of ADHD and manifestations of comorbid disorders, since it is quite long. When choosing pharmacotherapy, it is preferable to use drugs with verified efficacy not only in the correction of ADHD, but also concomitant behavioral, motor and emotional disorders. Also an important aspect in the pediatric clinic is the use of drugs with a reliable safety profile.

Do Sleep Disorders Influence the Prognosis and the Response to the Therapy in Enuretic Children?

OBJECTIVE

The current study describes the prevalence of sleep disorders in enuretic children, playing as influencing factors in the response to treatment and risk of relapse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were collected from September 2020 to February 2021 in 114 children aged between 5 and 14 years, with a diagnosis of nocturnal enuresis and concomitant sleep disorders, referred to the Pediatric Unit, Campus BioMedico University, Rome. Enuretic children were subjected to an anamnestic and clinical assessment. Sleep disorders investigated were sleep apnea, sleep talking, snoring, bruxism, restless sleep, and somnambulism. Each patient was subjected both to pharmacological and to non-pharmacological treatments and monitored for 3 months to identify the presence of relapse. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to therapy response, and statistical analysis was performed to evaluate possible variables involved in enuresis relapse.

RESULTS

A high prevalence of sleep disorders was documented: 8/114 children (7%) had sleep apnea, 47/114 (41.2%) had bruxism, 66/114 (57.8%) had snoring, 54/114 (47.3%) had sleep talking, 18/114 (15.7%) had restless sleep. Forty-three of 114 children (37.7%) had relapses: 21/43 (49%) relapses occurred in children with only 1 sleep disorder, while 22/43 (51%) relapses occurred in children with 2 or more sleep disorders. Lower risk of relapses was reported in children subjected to dual therapy.

CONCLUSION

Sleep disorders were widely associated with nocturnal enuresis, acting as comorbidities in the clinical course of nocturnal enuresis. Combined therapy seems to be associated with a lower rate of relapse of enuresis in a 3-month follow-up. A multidisciplinary approach is required to improve patients' management.

Enuresis and Hyperfiltration in Children With Sickle Cell Disease

Nocturnal enuresis is a common symptom in children with sickle cell disease (SCD). Risk factors for development of enuresis are currently unknown. An early manifestation of SCD-associated kidney damage is glomerular hyperfiltration. We test the hypothesis that in a pediatric SCD cohort, individuals with hyperfiltration are more likely to have nocturnal enuresis when compared to children without hyperfiltration. To assess the relationship between nocturnal enuresis and hyperfiltration, we retrospectively evaluated children with SCD enrolled in the Evaluation of Nocturnal Enuresis and Barriers to Treatment among Pediatric Patients with SCD study and prospectively identified children who reported nocturnal enuresis and were enrolled in the longitudinal cohort study Sickle Cell Clinical Research and Intervention Program. Nocturnal enuresis occurred in 46.5% of Pediatric Patients with Sickle Cell Disease participants and was more frequent in participants with HbSS/HbSβ 0 thalassemia and in male participants. We did not identify an association between hyperfiltration from 3 to 5 years of age with the later development of enuresis. Severe SCD genotypes and male sex were associated with nocturnal enuresis after age 5 years. We could not identify additional renal or hematologic predictors associated with the diagnosis of nocturnal enuresis. Future studies should incorporate nonrenal risk factors into studies that predict development of enuresis.

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.

Anxiety disorders, depression and incontinence in preschool children-A population-based study

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to examine associations of specific anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, and incontinence in a representative, population-based sample of preschool children.

METHODS

All preschool children of a defined geographical area examined before school-entry were included. Parents completed a questionnaire including the Preschool Feelings Checklist (PFC), eight questions referring to nocturnal enuresis (NE), daytime urinary incontinence (DUI), fecal incontinence (FI) and constipation, and 30 items regarding Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fifth Edition (DSM-5) diagnostic criteria of separation anxiety disorder (SAD), social phobia (SOC), specific phobia (PHOB), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Data of 1206 children (mean age = 5.7 years; 53.5% boys) are presented.

RESULTS

34.6% of incontinent children had an anxiety disorder based on DSM-5 criteria and 13.3% had clinically relevant depressive symptoms (measured by the PFC). Rates of incontinence overall were 14.1% (11.9% NE, 3.1% DUI, and 1.8% FI) and 6.3% for constipation. Rates of SOC and PHOB were increased in NE (20.8% and 25.4%), DUI (39.3% and 34.5%) and FI (35.3% and 50.0%) compared to continent children (13.5% and 17.2%). Children with constipation had higher rates of SOC, PHOB, and GAD than those without. Compared to continent children (9.7%), depressive symptoms were more frequent in children with NE (26.8%), DUI (50.0%), and FI (61.9%).

CONCLUSION

Anxiety disorders and depressive symptoms are common in children with incontinence. The most specific DSM-5 disorders associated with incontinence are SOC and PHOB, which can be incapacitating and may require treatment. Due to the high rates of anxiety disorders, it is important to screen all children with incontinence, for example, with specific questionnaires.

Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction Is Associated with Psychiatric Comorbidities and Functional Impairment in Pediatric Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Objective: Neuropsychiatric disorders are common in children with bowel and bladder dysfunction (BBD), a syndrome associated with urinary frequency, urgency, holding, incontinence, and constipation. We evaluated BBD symptom severity in children and youth attending a tertiary care obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) clinic. Methods: Consecutive patients attending initial OCD assessments between 2016 and 2020 were invited to participate in a registry study. Diagnosis of OCD and comorbidities was established by structured clinical interview. OCD severity and impact were assessed with the Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS) and the Child Obsessive Compulsive Impact Scale (COIS-R; self-report), respectively. BBD symptoms were quantified with the Vancouver Symptom Score (VSS), a validated self-report measure. Results: One hundred twelve participants completed the VSS (mean age 13.5 ± 3.3, range 7-20). Based on a cutoff score of 11 corresponding to pediatric urologist-diagnosed BBD, 30.4% of participants screened positive, including more females than males (39.3% vs. 21.4%; p = 0.04). Daytime urinary incontinence was present in a greater proportion of participants with OCD forbidden thoughts (34.8% vs. 8.2%, p = 0.002), major depressive disorder (MDD; 38.5% vs. 6.8%, p = 0.001), and somatization disorder (60% vs. 9%, p = 0.001) compared with those without. A regression model including CY-BOCS, COIS-R, psychiatric comorbidities, medications, age, and gender explained 52.2% of the variance in VSS; COIS-R, tic disorder, and MDD were significant predictors. Conclusion: BBD symptoms are common and associated with high OCD-related impairment and psychiatric comorbidities. Standardized assessment may facilitate identification of BBD symptoms in this population and is critical to mitigating long-term physical and mental health impacts. Further studies are required to assess the relationship between BBD and OCD treatment outcomes.

Daytime urotherapy in nocturnal enuresis: a randomised, controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

According to international guidelines, children with enuresis are recommended urotherapy, or basic bladder advice, before treatment with evidence-based alternatives such as the enuresis alarm is given. The efficacy of this strategy has, however, not been supported by controlled studies. We wanted to test if basic bladder advice is useful in enuresis.

DESIGN

Randomised, controlled trial.

SETTING

Paediatric outpatient ward, regional hospital.

PATIENTS

Treatment-naïve enuretic children aged ≥6 years, with no daytime incontinence.

INTERVENTIONS

Three groups, each during 8 weeks: (A) basic bladder advice-that is, voiding and drinking according to a strict schedule and instructions regarding toilet posture, (B) enuresis alarm therapy and (C) no treatment (control group).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Reduction in enuresis frequency during week 7-8 compared with baseline.

RESULTS

The median number of wet nights out of 14 before and at the end of treatment were in group A (n=20) 12.5 and 11.5 (p=0.44), in group B (n=22) 11.0 and 3.5 (p<0.001) and in group C (n=18) 12.5 and 12.0 (p=0.55). The difference in reduction of enuresis frequency between the groups was highly significant (p=0.002), but no difference was found between basic bladder advice and controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Urotherapy, or basic bladder advice, is ineffective as a first-line treatment of nocturnal enuresis. Enuretic children who are old enough to be bothered by their condition should be offered treatment with the alarm or desmopressin.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03812094.

Problems with enuresis management-A personal view

Much has happened since the end of the era when enuresis was blamed on the parents or the children themselves. Still, there are large gaps in our knowledge and large parts of modern enuresis management guidelines are (still) not based on firm evidence. In this review I will question the following commonly made assumptions regarding enuresis evaluation and treatment: •It is important to subdivide enuresis according to the presence of daytime symptoms•Voiding charts are crucial in the primary evaluation of the enuretic child•All children with enuresis need to be screened for behavioral or psychiatric issues•Concomittant daytime incontinence needs to be successfully treated before addressing the enuresis•Concomittant constipation needs to be successfully treated before addressing the enuresis•Urotherapy is a first-line treatment against enuresis In this review I will argue that much of what we do with these children is based more on experience and well-meant but poorly supported assumptions than on evidence. Some advice and therapies are probably ineffective whereas for other treatments we lack reliable predictors of treatment response. More research is obviously needed, but awaiting new results enuresis management could be substantially simplified.

Reduced bladder capacity without daytime voiding symptoms with nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of monosymotomatic nocturnal enuresis (MSNE) with reduced bladder capacity in children with primary nocturnal enuresis (NE) and to suggest treatment outcomes.

METHODS

This study retrospectively evaluated 54 children (30 males, 24 females; median age: 8; range: 5-14) who were newly diagnosed with primary NE from November 2017 to October 2019. Reduced bladder capacity in MSNE was defined when a patient's maximal voided volume (MVV) from his or her voiding diary was 75% or less than estimated functional bladder capacity ([age + 1] x 30 mL) for his or her age and there were no daytime lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) as assessed using history taking and questionnaires.

RESULTS

Nineteen (35.2%) of 54 children with newly diagnosed primary NE did not report daytime LUTS. Fifteen children (27.8%) had a reduced bladder capacity and were prescribed anticholinergic or beta-3 agonist. After three months of medication, MVV significantly increased from 117.5 mL to 183.3 mL (P = 0.010), but frequency showed no significant change from 5.7 to 4.9 times a day. Improvement in enuresis occurred completely and partially in 41.7% and 25% of participants, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of reduced bladder capacity without daytime voiding symptoms was relatively high as 27.8% in children newly diagnosed with primary NE. In primary MSNE, reduced bladder capacity should be investigated using a frequency-volume chart in addition to thorough history taking or questionnaires. Anticholinergics or beta-3 agonists for MSNE with reduced bladder capacity are effective at increasing the bladder capacity of these patients.

Antiepileptic Drugs-Induced Enuresis in Children: An Overview

Objective: To evaluate enuresis-induced antiepileptic drugs in children. Data Sources: A PubMed search (1917 to July 2020) was performed using the following keywords and associated medical subject headings: antiepileptic drugs, enuresis, pediatric population, drug-induced enuresis, and epilepsy. Study Selection and Data Extraction: The search was conducted to find the role of antiepileptic drugs-induced enuresis in children in studies published in English. Data Synthesis: Enuresis or bedwetting is an underreported adverse drug reaction of antiepileptic drugs. Owing to that fact, it is a condition that is outgrown with age and also could cause embarrassment. As antiepileptic drugs sometimes need to be taken for a long duration until epilepsy relapses, the occurrence of enuresis in this situation can be troublesome for both the child and the caretaker. Even though enuresis is proposed to have a significant effect on the child's psychology, it is still considered to be a condition that is outgrown with age. This article includes a review of antiepileptic drugs reported to have caused enuresis in children. Conclusions: If a child develops enuresis as an adverse drug reaction, this adds further challenges to their life. A better understanding of this potential adverse effect may help prevent unwanted stress. Though the exact mechanisms are not known, the hypothesis generated is from the occurred cases, most of which relapsed when the drug was withdrawn. Considering the gravity of epilepsy in children, more detailed studies need to be conducted on this adverse effect to ensure a safe and effective treatment in children.

Audit of enuresis referrals on the waiting list for a tertiary hospital outpatient clinic

AIM

Enuresis, defined as intermittent incontinence occurring exclusively during sleep, affects 4-19% of children, but can be effectively treated using education and alarm-bell therapies. However, delays in treatment are likely to impact upon the quality of life of the child, parents and carers. Poor quality and incomplete referrals are thought to be a major driver of inefficiencies. The aim of this study was to explore characteristics of enuresis referrals on the waiting list for a general medicine clinic at a tertiary paediatric hospital.

METHODS

An audit was conducted to examine all enuresis referrals on the general medicine outpatient clinic waiting list in February 2019 at The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne. Enuresis referrals with an organic cause and those for children less than 5 years of age were excluded.

RESULTS

Of the 2613 referrals on the general medicine waiting list, 486 of 2613 (19%) were related to enuresis. The median age of patients on the waiting list was 8 years and 65% (315/486) were male. Sufficient detail was provided to determine temporal and disease stratification in 45% (218/486) of referrals; primary versus secondary enuresis, and monosymptomatic versus non-monosymptomatic enuresis. The mean number of days on the waiting list calculated at the time of data extraction (13 February 2019) was 226 (±179) days.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings from this study suggest that there are long waiting times for enuresis services and referrals often do not contain complete information.

State and trait anxiety in children with incontinence and their parents

BACKGROUND

Maternal anxiety increases the risk for incontinence in children. The aim was to analyze anxiety in children with incontinence and their parents before (t1) and after 6 months of incontinence treatment (t2).

METHODS

40 children with incontinence and 40 controls completed the State-trait Anxiety Inventory for Children, their parents the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the State-trait Anxiety Inventory at baseline (t1) and 6 months later (follow-up, t2). Psychiatric disorders were assessed by a standardized parental diagnostic interview (Kinder-DIPS), IQ was tested by a one-dimensional test. All children were neurologically examined. Children with incontinence underwent a guideline-based treatment during the 6 months.

RESULTS

At baseline, child and parental state and trait anxiety scores, as well as all CBCL scores were significantly higher in the patient group compared to the control group. At t2, parental anxiety, CBCL scores, and child trait anxiety were significantly higher in patients versus controls, whereas child state anxiety decreased, and parental state anxiety increased from t1 to t2.

CONCLUSIONS

Incontinence and anxiety are associated. While state anxiety decreases, trait anxiety can remain stable over time. Higher levels of anxiety can influence incontinence treatment and should be assessed in every patient.

Alarm Therapy in the Treatment of Enuresis in Children: Types and Efficacy Review

Enuresis is defined as bedwetting in children aged five years and older when organic reasons have been ruled out. It can result in substantial psychological repercussions and uncomfortable circumstances for both the child and the family. Medical (desmopressin, tricyclic antidepressants [TCAs]) and behavioral treatment are the basis for the treatment of enuresis. Alarm therapy is considered the first treatment modality of choice for enuresis with almost 50% cure rates are in the long term. Cooperation and compliance from parents and children are the cornerstones of the effectiveness of alarm therapy. Multiple factors, such as technical issues, might slow down the therapeutic response time. The objective of this study is to review the role of alarm therapy in the treatment of enuresis, its types, and its efficacy and to explore the factors that may increase or decrease its efficacy.

Sex and age differences in lower urinary tract dysfunction in healthy children

AIM

Information about healthy children's urinary tract symptoms is scarce but would be helpful in children with congenital urinary tract conditions. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction (LUTD) questionnaire.

METHODS

A 15-item questionnaire based on definitions by the International Children's Continence Society (ICCS) about urinary tract function, was given to children 4-15 years old with no gastrointestinal or urinary tract conditions. The study was approved ethically.

RESULTS

The response rate was 82% (311/377), 50% (n = 155) were girls. Children were of the age groups 3.5-7 years (n = 136), 8-12 years (n = 127), and 13-15 years (n = 48). More girls than boys reported urinary tract infections (20% vs 3%, p < 0.001), while prevalences of incontinence and enuresis were equivalent in both sexes. In the youngest age group, enuresis was the most frequently reported symptom (11%), then daytime incontinence (10%). The older children more frequently reported previous urinary tract infections (12% and 17% in respective groups) and daytime incontinence (9% and 6%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

A LUTD questionnaire is developed and evaluated within this study. Daytime urinary incontinence is the overall most common lower urinary tract symptom and girls report infections more frequently than boys.

Nocturnal Enuresis in Sickle Cell: Sociodemographic, Medical, and Quality of Life Factors

OBJECTIVE

Nocturnal enuresis is more prevalent in youth with sickle cell disease (SCD) compared to the general population. The purpose of this study is to estimate prevalence of nocturnal enuresis using diagnostic criteria and identify associated sociodemographic, medical, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) factors.

METHODS

Youth with SCD (N = 248; ages 6.00-17.99 years) and their caregivers completed semi-structured interviews and questionnaires. HRQOL was measured using the Pediatric Quality of Life (PedsQL) Inventory. Medical information was abstracted from medical record. We generated multivariable logistic regression models to examine associations between factors and current nocturnal enuresis and nocturnal enuresis occurring any time in the past (lifetime).

RESULTS

Among participants (mean age, 11.3 ± 3.6 years; 50.8% male), 21.4% reported current nocturnal enuresis and 46% reported lifetime nocturnal enuresis. Male sex [odds ratio (OR), 2.57; p = .001], difficulty arousing from sleep (OR, 3.57; p < .001), higher school functioning HRQOL (OR, 1.02; p = .014), and higher fetal hemoglobin levels (OR, 1.03; p = .048) were associated with lifetime nocturnal enuresis. Younger age (OR, 1.16; p = .005), higher youth-reported fatigue (OR, 1.01; p = .045), difficulty arousing from sleep (OR, 4.92; p < .001), and higher lactate dehydrogenase levels (OR, 1.00; p = .042) were associated with current nocturnal enuresis.

CONCLUSIONS

Nocturnal enuresis is prevalent in youth with SCD and is associated with HRQOL, diminished sleep, greater fatigue, and disease severity markers. Routine assessment of sleep behaviors and fatigue are necessary when treating patients with SCD to understand the impact of nocturnal enuresis on HRQOL.

A Smart Diaper System Using Bluetooth and Smartphones to Automatically Detect Urination and Volume of Voiding: Prospective Observational Pilot Study in an Acute Care Hospital

Background

Caregivers of patients who wear conventional diapers are required to check for voiding every hour because prolonged wearing of wet diapers causes health problems including diaper dermatitis and urinary tract infections. However, frequent checking is labor intensive and disturbs patients’ and caregivers’ sleep. Furthermore, assessing patients’ urine output with diapers in an acute care setting is difficult. Recently, a smart diaper system with wetness detection technology was developed to solve these issues.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the applicability of the smart diaper system for urinary detection, its accuracy in measuring voiding volume, and its effect on incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) occurrence in an acute care hospital.

Methods

This prospective, observational, single-arm pilot study was conducted at a single tertiary hospital. We recruited 35 participants aged ≥50 years who were wearing diapers due to incontinence between August and November 2020. When the smart diaper becomes wet, the smart diaper system notifies the caregiver to change the diaper and measures voiding volume automatically. Caregivers were instructed to record the weight of wet diapers on frequency volume charts (FVCs). We determined the voiding detection rate of the smart diaper system and compared the urine volume as automatically calculated by the smart diaper system with the volume recorded on FVCs. Agreement between the two measurements was estimated using a Bland-Altman plot. We also checked for the occurrence or aggravation of IAD and bed sores.

Results

A total of 30 participants completed the protocol and 390 episodes of urination were recorded. There were 108 records (27.7%) on both the FVCs and the smart diaper system, 258 (66.2%) on the FVCs alone, 18 (4.6%) on the smart diaper system alone, and 6 (1.5%) on the FVCs with sensing device lost. The detection rate of the smart diaper system was 32.8% (126/384). When analyzing records concurrently listed in both the FVCs and the smart diaper system, linear regression showed a strong correlation between the two measurements (R²=0.88, P<.001). The Bland-Altman assessment showed good agreement between the two measurements, with a mean difference of –4.2 mL and 95% limits of agreement of –96.7 mL and 88.3 mL. New occurrence and aggravation of IAD and bed sores were not observed. Bed sores improved in one participant.

Conclusions

The smart diaper system showed acceptable accuracy for measuring urine volume and it could replace conventional FVCs in acute setting hospitals. Furthermore, the smart diaper system has the potential advantage of preventing IAD development and bed sore worsening. However, the detection rate of the smart diaper system was lower than expected. Detection rate polarization among participants was observed, and improvements in the user interface and convenience are needed for older individuals who are unfamiliar with the smart diaper system.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders and Functional Urinary Disorders: A Fortuitous Association?

Although psychological factors are known to affect bladder and bowel control, the occurrence of functional urinary disorders in patients with psychiatric disorders has not been well-studied or described. A higher prevalence of functional lower urinary tract disorders have also been reported amongst patients with obsessive-compulsive (OC) disorders. A systematic literature search of PubMed, EMBASE, OVID Medline, PsycINFO, Clinical Trials Register of the Cochrane Collaboration Depression, Anxiety and Neurosis Group (CCDANTR), Clinicaltrials.gov and Google Scholar databases found five observational studies on the topic. Unfortunately, as only one study had a (healthy) control group, a meta-analytic approach was not possible. Overall, patients with OC symptoms appeared to have increased occurrence of functional urinary symptoms, e.g., overactive bladder, increase in urgency, frequency, incontinence and enuresis. This was even more common amongst patients with Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) or Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) as opposed to patients with OCD alone. Several biological and behavioural mechanisms and treatment approaches were discussed. However, as the current evidence base was significantly limited and had moderate to serious risk of bias, no strong inferences could be drawn. Further well-designed cohort studies are necessary to better elucidate the observed associations and their management.

Effect of DRD4 Receptor -616 C/G Polymorphism on Thalamic GABA Levels in Pediatric Patients With Primary Nocturnal Enuresis

BACKGROUND

The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) promoter (-616; rs747302) is associated with abnormalities of the thalamus in children suffering from primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE).

PURPOSE

To investigate the effect of DRD4 -616 C/G SNP on thalamic gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in PNE children.

STUDY TYPE

Prospective, observational.

SUBJECTS

One hundred and seventy-six children with PNE and 161 healthy control children.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3 T, three-dimensional T1-weighted turbo field echo sequence and MEscher-Garwood Point RESolved Spectroscopy (MEGA-PRESS) MRS sequence.

ASSESSMENT

The MEGA-PRESS MRS sequence was used to measure thalamic GABA spectra. The thalamic GABA+ level was calculated using the Gannet 3.0 software package for each participant. A questionnaire was used to determine arousal from sleep (AS) scores.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Comparisons of the AS scores and thalamic GABA+ levels were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test between C-allele carriers and GG homozygotes in the PNE and control groups. Spearman correlation analysis was performed to determine the association between AS scores and thalamic GABA levels in PNE children.

RESULTS

Thalamic GABA levels in the PNE group were significantly higher than those in the healthy control group (0.178 (0.169-0.186) vs. 0.154 (0.146-0.164), Z = 8.526, P_corrected  < 0.001). The GABA levels in C-allele carriers were significantly higher than those in GG homozygotes in both the PNE and control groups (0.184 (0.181-0.193) vs. 0.170 (0.165-0.177), Z = 8.683, P_corrected  < 0.001; 0.166 (0.156-0.170) vs. 0.147 (0.141-0.152), Z = 9.445, P_corrected  < 0.001). GABA levels in the thalamus were also significantly and positively correlated with AS scores in C-allele carriers in the PNE group (r = 0.747, P < 0.05).

DATA CONCLUSION

DRD4 -616 C allele may be associated with increased thalamic GABA+ levels, especially in C-allele carrying PNE children.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2 TECHNICAL EFFICACY STAGE: 3.

Prevalence of elimination disorders and comorbid psychiatric disorders in Iranian children and adolescents

PURPOSE

Currently, there is a paucity of studies on the prevalence of Elimination Disorders among Iranian children and adolescents. Due to the ongoing need to monitor the health status of these children and adolescents, the present study aims to investigate the prevalence of Elimination Disorders and comorbid disorders in Iranian children and adolescents.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, 29,781 children and adolescents age 6 to 18 years old were selected and studied from all the provinces in Iran. The sampling was carried out by employing a multistage cluster sampling method, and several clinical psychologists using semi-structured interviews collected the data. Furthermore, clinical psychologists collected demographic information (including information about gender, age, place of residence, education level, and parental education level). The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.

RESULTS

Generally, the prevalence of Elimination Disorders was found to be 5.4% covering both enuresis (p= 5.4, 95% CI = 5.1-5.7) and encopresis (p= 0.13, 95% CI = 0.09-0.2). The total prevalence of comorbid disorders was 38%, and among the comorbid disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (p= 11, 95% CI = 9.5-12.7) and Separation Anxiety (p= 10.6, 95% CI = 9.1-12.2) were the most prevalent.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of Elimination Disorders in Iranian children and adolescents is moderate compared to similar studies elsewhere. As for comorbid disorders, ADHD and Separation Anxiety were found to be the most prevalent disorders. Since Elimination Disorders coexist with psychiatric disorders in children, further studies of these comorbidities may give better insight into the treatment and prognosis of Elimination Disorders.

Medical history of nocturnal enuresis during school age is an independent risk factor for nocturia in adults: The Nagahama study

AIM

To evaluate the relationship between nocturia and medical history of nocturnal enuresis: two conditions where diurnal urination rhythm is disturbed.

METHODS

The Nagahama study is a longitudinal population-based health survey involving people aged 30-75 years in Nagahama city, Japan. Our analysis included 5,402 participants who completed enuresis and International Prostate Symptom Score questionnaires. Associations between nocturnal enuresis and nocturia were evaluated cross-sectionally and longitudinally with three models: (1) univariate analysis; (2) adjusted for basic characteristics (e.g., age, sex, body mass index, activity, alcohol, and smoking); and (3) adjusted for basic and clinical variables (e.g., hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, renal insufficiency, insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, and mental health).

RESULTS

In total, 1,613 participants (29.9%) had a medical history of enuresis. The mean night-time frequency was 0.73 at baseline and 0.85 at the 5-year follow-up. The cross-sectional analysis showed participants with a medical history of enuresis had night-time frequency more often than those without this history (0.84 vs. 0.68, p < .0001). Significant differences were observed in Models 2 (p < .0001) and 3 (p < .0001). The longitudinal analysis showed nocturia progression was significantly related to a history of enuresis, with odds ratios of 1.32 (p < .0001) in Model 1, 1.21 (p < .01) in Model 2, and 1.22 (p < .01) in Model 3.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical history of enuresis during school age was significantly related to nocturia in adulthood in the cross-sectional analysis, and to progression to nocturia in the longitudinal analysis. These two conditions may possess a common causative association.

Behavioral comorbidity, overweight, and obesity in children with incontinence: An analysis of 1638 cases

AIMS

Children with nocturnal enuresis (NE), daytime urinary incontinence (DUI), and fecal incontinence (FI) are at risk for behavioral problems, overweight, and obesity. The aim of this study was to analyze the specific behavioral and weight comorbidity in subtypes of incontinence.

METHODS

A total of 1638 consecutive patients presented to a tertiary incontinence clinic from 2012 to 2018 was examined prospectively according to ICCS criteria. Behavioral symptoms were measured with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed according to ICD-10 criteria. Weight categories were calculated according to WHO recommendations.

RESULTS

The mean age was 7.8 years, 67% of patients were male. Fifty-seven percent had NE (n = 934), 33% DUI (n = 547), and 40% FI (n = 656). Boys had significantly higher rates of NE and FI than girls. Of all children, 39.2% (n = 539) had a clinically relevant CBCL total score. A total of 28.3% (n = 463) had an ICD-10 psychiatric diagnosis, mainly ODD and ADHD, and 28.6% (n = 463) were overweight or obese. Boys were more often affected by behavioral symptoms, psychiatric disorders, and overweight/obesity. Children with NE had the highest rate of overweight/obesity. Except for primary nonmonosymptomatic NE, subtypes of incontinence did not differ regarding behavioral symptoms and weight categories. However, overweight/obesity was significantly associated with behavioral and psychiatric parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

Behavioral symptoms and psychiatric disorders, as well as overweight/obesity are important risk factors associated with incontinence, but the interaction between these factors is complex. In clinical settings, all children with incontinence should be screened with behavioral questionnaires. Also, weight should be measured, and overweight/obesity should be addressed.

Paediatric bladder dysfunction: A single centre experience of public hospital wait times

AIM

Paediatric bladder dysfunction, including daytime urinary incontinence and enuresis, is a common and distressing condition. Unfortunately, children with these symptoms are often on waitlists for several months. This treatment delay may significantly impact upon the child and family unit. This study aimed to quantify waiting times for children who had attended hospital outpatient clinics for symptoms of wetting.

METHODS

A retrospective review was undertaken for patients who had been referred to The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne outpatient clinics for symptoms of wetting (with/without bowel symptoms). Data regarding the referral and triage pathway, up to the time of the first clinic appointment, were collected. These data were compared to a previous audit conducted in the same setting.

RESULTS

A total of 101 clinic attendances were included in this study. The overall waiting time, from receipt of referral to the patient's first clinic attendance, was a median of 181 days (n = 94 valid responses; range 7-695). Wait times for patients with isolated symptoms of wetting were similar to patients with mixed bowel and bladder dysfunction (187 and 171.5 days, respectively). Most patients were triaged to the continence clinic (n = 68), whilst smaller proportions of patients were seen in the encopresis (n = 14), urology (n = 13), general medicine (n = 2), gastroenterology (n = 1) and nurse-led enuresis clinic (n = 3).

CONCLUSIONS

The waiting times for patients with wetting generally exceeded 5 months. Alternative pathways for triage need to be explored to manage demand and improve wait times.

Not the Sum of Its Parts: A Critical Review of the MacDonald Triad

The MacDonald triad posits that animal cruelty, fire setting, and bed wetting in childhood is indicative of later aggressive and violent behavior in adults. Researchers refer to this phenomenon as a precursor to later antisocial behaviors including serial and sexual murder; while practitioners cite the triad in clinical formulations and risk assessments. However, there is yet to be a critical review and consolidation of the literature that establishes whether there is empirical support. This article explores the validity of the triad. We conducted a narrative review of the relevant studies examining the MacDonald triad and its individual constituents. There is evidence that any one of the triad behaviors could predict future violent offending, but it is very rare to find all three behaviors together as predictors. Thus, the empirical research on the MacDonald triad does not fully substantiate its premise. Rather, it would appear that the triad, or its individual constituents, is better used as an indicator of dysfunctional home environments, or poor coping skills in children. Future research is needed with robust and rigorous methodologies (e.g., adequate control groups, longitudinal designs) to fully establish the MacDonald triad's validity. Finally, further consideration is needed as to whether the triad behaviors are more indicative of other problematic outcomes (e.g., maladaptive coping to life stressors).

The effect of using entertainment and communication devices before sleep on nocturnal enuresis

BACKGROUND

Monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE) is a common urological problem. The association between the use of entertainment and communication devices (EECDs) at night and enuresis in MNE patients has yet to be reported in the literature. This study aims to determine if an association exists between the use of EECDs before sleep and nocturnal enuresis.

METHODS

Patients with MNE who presented to the pediatric nephrology department of the center between January 30, 2019 and June 30, 2019 were included in the study. A questionnaire was administered both to the patients and to an age- and sex-matched control group to garner details of sleeping features and duration of exposure to EECDs before sleep. A comparison was then made of the answers provided by the patient and control groups.

RESULTS

The study included 138 patients (65 females; 73 males) and 104 controls (44 females; 60 males). The patients who used EECDs for more than 3 h a day before sleep suffered more frequently from bedwetting than those who used EECDs for fewer than 3 h a day (P = 0.007). The time of exposure to EECDs before sleep in the patient group was longer than in the control group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of EECDs for more than 3 hours before sleep is associated with bedwetting and enuresis frequency in patients with MNE. Patients suffering from MNE should be advised not to use EECDs before sleep.

Associations Between Psychiatric Disorders and Enuresis in Taiwanese Children: A National Population-Based Study

Background

Psychiatric disorders such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder may negatively impact drug compliance and the prognosis of enuresis. However, existing studies regarding associations between lifetime psychiatric disorders and childhood enuresis are primarily from Western countries, and studies from Taiwan are lacking.

Methods

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort analysis using the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2010. A total of 1,146 children with enuresis (ICD-9-CM code: 307.6) and 4,584 randomly selected sex- and age-matched controls were identified between January 1, 1997 and December 31, 2011. Logistic regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the development of psychiatric disorders in the children with enuresis.

Results

Enuresis was more common in the younger children, and the rate was significantly higher in boys (58.7%) than in girls (41.3%). A total of 171 patients (14.9%) in the enuresis group had at least one psychiatric diagnosis vs 259 (5.7%) in the control group (p<0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of enuresis increased the odds of developing major depressive/dysthymic disorder (OR=2.841, 95% CI: 1.619, 4.987), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (OR=3.156, 95% CI: 2.446, 4.073), autism spectrum disorder (OR=2.468, 95% CI: 1.264, 4.822), anxiety disorders (OR=3.113, 95% CI: 2.063, 4.699), intelligence disability (OR=3.989, 95% CI: 2.476, 6.426), disruptive behavior disorders (OR=3.749, 95% CI: 1.756, 8.004), and tic disorder (OR=2.660, 95% CI: 1.642, 4.308).

Conclusion

Children with enuresis are likely to have psychiatric disorders, and physicians should consider this during their evaluation.

Incontinence and psychological symptoms in Phelan-McDermid syndrome

AIMS

Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMD) is a congenital syndrome caused by a deletion on chromosome 22q13.3. About 600 cases have been identified worldwide. PMD is characterized by neonatal hypotonia, moderate/severe intellectual impairment, impaired expressive language, and typical dysmorphic features. Psychological symptoms as hyperactivity, attention problems, restlessness, and stereotyped-repetitive behavior were reported. The aim of the study was to assess incontinence and associated psychological problems in PMD.

METHODS

Forty-one individuals with PMD were recruited through a German support group (48.8% male; mean age 13.4 years; range, 4-55 years). Parents or caregivers completed the developmental behavior checklist (DBC), as well as the parental questionnaire: enuresis/urinary incontinence, including six questions on adaptive toileting skills.

RESULTS

Rates of nocturnal enuresis (NE), daytime urinary incontinence, and fecal incontinence were 86%, 73%, and 79%. Rates were similar in all age groups (children, teens, adults). Constipation was present in 19%. Forty-two percent of the sample had a clinically relevant DBC score, with adults more affected than teens. Persons with NE had significantly higher "anxiety/depression" subscale scores. Toileting skills were more developed in adults than in children. Sixty-eight percent had further physical disabilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Incontinence rates in PMD are high in all age groups. However, persons with PMD can improve their toilet skills. Therefore, the assessment and treatment of incontinence in persons with PMD is recommended. Constipation does not seem to be a major problem in PMD. Due to the high prevalence rates of somatic conditions, an assessment for organic and functional incontinence is recommended.

Assessing the need for adenotonsillectomy for sleep-disordered breathing in a community setting: A secondary outcome measures analysis of a randomized controlled study

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) symptom severity above a certain level, measured by a validated questionnaire, improve after adenotonsillectomy (AT) compared to no intervention.

METHODS

Children with snoring and tonsillar hypertrophy (4 to 10-years old), who were candidates for AT, were randomly assigned to two evaluation sequences (baseline and 3-month follow-up): (a) evaluation immediately before AT and at 3 months postoperatively (AT group); or (b) evaluation at the initial visit and at the end of the usual 3-month waiting period for surgery (control group). Outcomes were (a) Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire sleep-related breathing disorder scale (PSQ-SRBD); (b) modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale (mESS); and (c) proportion of subjects achieving PSQ-SRBD <0.33 (low-risk for apnea-hypopnea index ≥5/h) if they had score ≥0.33 at baseline.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight children were assigned to the AT and 72 to the control group and two-thirds of them had PSQ-SRBD ≥0.33. The AT group experienced significantly larger improvement between follow-up and baseline than controls (between-group difference [95% CI] for PSQ-SRBD: -0.31 [-0.35 to -0.27]; and mESS: -2.76 [-3.63 to -1.90]; P < .001 for both). Children with baseline PSQ-SRBD ≥0.33 in the AT group had an eight-times higher probability of achieving PSQ-SRBD <0.33 at follow-up than controls with similar baseline score (risk ratio [95% CI]: 8.33 [3.92-17.54]; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

Among children with snoring, tonsillar hypertrophy, and clinical indications for AT, those with preoperative PSQ-SRBD score ≥0.33 show measurable clinical benefit postoperatively.

Risperidone-induced Enuresis in a 12-year-old Child

Risperidone has been documented to be effective in the management of behavior problems, aggression, and conduct disorder in children. While metabolic side effects like weight gain and obesity have been attributed to Risperidone use in children, side effects of the drug related to the urinary bladder are rare. We present a case of Risperidone-induced enuresis in a 12-year-old boy with conduct disorder that resolved completely after stopping the medication.

Monosymptomatic enuresis: the therapeutic weapons

Nocturnal enuresis (NE) was defined by the World Health Organization (ICD-10) and the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) as bed-wetting in children aged >5 years. In cases of mental retardation, the developmental age may be equivalent to 5 years. In this review, we focus on the current knowledge about the etiology of enuresis and the most recent therapeutical options. Both non-pharmacological and pharmacological therapies are included, although the relative effectiveness of each remains uncertain. To date, motivational, alarm and drug therapies are the mainstay of treatment. Alarm therapy remains the first-line treatment modality for NE, while desmopressin is the most commonly used medical treatment.

The relationship between urinary incontinence and obesity in childhood

AIM

To explore associations between weight and type/frequency of urinary incontinence (UI) in children presenting to a tertiary hospital incontinence clinic.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of children who first attended the incontinence clinic at The Children's Hospital at Westmead between January 2004 and December 2014. A random sample of 1000 children was selected from 2022 patient records, and data were collected on weight, height, age, gender, UI parameters, bowel habits and medical history. Associations between predictors (weight categories, gender, snoring, constipation, faecal incontinence) and outcomes (daytime urinary incontinence (DUI) and nocturnal enuresis (NE)) were examined using χ² tests and logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 862 children were included in the study; 54% were male, and 28% were overweight/obese. No evidence of difference was found between the underweight/normal and overweight/obese weight children with NE (34 vs. 39%), DUI (7 vs. 9%) or combined NE and DUI (58 vs. 52.1%), P = 0.23. The frequency of NE (83 vs. 82%, P = 0.56) and DUI (52 vs. 58%, P = 0.20) was similar between the weight groups.

CONCLUSION

In a large cohort of children presenting to a tertiary incontinence clinic, weight was not associated with the type or frequency of UI.