Current concepts in the management of common urologic problems in infants and children.

Vesicoureteral reflux has the potential to cause irreversible renal damage if undiagnosed and untreated. It is important to have a high index of suspicion for the existence of a urinary tract infection in infants and children with any nonspecific generalized illness. Once a UTI is documented, appropriate antibiotic therapy must be started and continued until the urinary tract has been adequately evaluated radiographically. If vesicoureteral reflux is found to exist, appropriate medical or surgical therapy must be instituted to prevent further episodes of pyelonephritis.