Recognizing UTIs in infants and children. Early treatment prevents permanent damage.

The risk of irreversible renal scarring leading to hypertension and renal failure underscores the importance of expedient and accurate diagnoses of UTIs in infants and children. The selective use of invasive techniques to obtain urine for culture may reduce false-positive results that lead to unnecessary treatment. Subsequent management of UTIs depends on the age of the patient and the severity of the illness. Heightened awareness and prompt management of UTIs in infants and children can result in reduced morbidity and improved outcomes.