Current management of nocturnal enuresis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Nocturnal enuresis is an especially common problem with the potential to have an appreciable negative impact on the emotional health of a child.

RECENT FINDINGS: Our understanding of the pathogenesis continues to improve. A disorder of sleep arousal, a low nocturnal bladder capacity, and nocturnal polyuria are the three factors that interrelate to cause nocturnal enuresis. Constipation is a very common and often unrecognized factor that appreciably affects bladder function.

SUMMARY: Successful treatment involves interventions that simultaneously improve these factors. Self-esteem improves with any form of therapy and dryness is possible for the majority of children.