Low Risk for Urinary Tract Infection After Voiding Cystography in Children Without Dilated Vesikoureteral Reflux.

AIM: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common and significant complication after voiding cystourethrography (VCUG) but the reported incidence in children varies highly. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the rate and possible risk factors for UTIs after VCUG.

METHOD: A multicentre retrospective cohort study of children < 15 years of age undergoing VCUG between 2017 and 2022 was conducted. Lower UTI (cystitis) and febrile UTI (pyelonephritis) within 14 days of VCUG were registered, defined by clinical assessment and a positive urinary culture.

RESULTS

One thousand and one examinations were included (median age 1 year, 52% boys). Previous febrile UTI was present in 58%. Pathology was found in 47% of children, of which 83% had vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Post VCUG UTI occurred in 34 (3.4%) children within 14 days, of which 60% were within 7 days and 88% were febrile. Only dilating VUR increased the risk for post VCUG UTI (adjusted odds ratio 5.4 [2.6-8.7] p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

There was a low rate of post VCUG UTIs. Since children with dilated VUR are at risk for chronic kidney injury, targeted interventions after VCUG could possibly lower additional UTIs in this group.