Definition – What is cystitis in a baby?
A cystitis in babies (also known as urocystitis or urinary tract infection in babies) describes the passage of germs such as bacteria or viruses into the urinary bladder and the resulting inflammation. Especially in infancy there is a peak in the frequency of cystitis. In contrast to adults or older children, babies do not show the classic symptoms of a bladder infection and so a diagnosis is often difficult to make.
Causes
In the vast majority of cases, intestinal bacteria are the cause of cystitis in babies. In about 80% of cases, these are E. coli bacteria. In babies and children, however, viral pathogens such as adenoviruses are also possible triggers for cystitis.
Contamination with intestinal bacteria occurs particularly in girls because of the anatomical proximity of the urethra and anus. Contamination is caused by incorrect cleaning after bowel movements, lack of hygiene or changing diapers too rarely. Another cause of cystitis in babies, especially if it occurs repeatedly, is anatomical malformation of the urinary tract, such as a narrowing of the ureter. Also worth mentioning here is vesicoureteral reflux (VUR), in which there is a backflow of urine from the urinary tract into the kidneys. Bladder catheters that have been in place for a long time can also be a cause of cystitis, as germs can also rise into the bladder through the catheters.
Diagnosis
If there is a suspicion of a bladder infection in the baby, a paediatrician should be consulted in any case. In a general examination of the baby, he or she can rule out another cause and also assess the baby’s general condition. In order to obtain a urine sample, we attach a urine bag to the diaper.
Alternatively, a urine sample brought from home can also be examined. With the help of a urine stick, nitrite, white (leukocytes) and red blood cells (erythrocytes) can be detected. In special cases, the urine sample can be viewed under a microscope or a urine culture can be made to determine the pathogen.
Particularly in babies, cystitis is a suspected cause of a malformation of the urinary tract. For this reason, an ultrasound examination can be carried out afterwards to identify possible malformations. If the baby’s general condition is poor, a blood test can also be performed to determine the inflammation values and fluid balance.
Associated symptoms
Classic symptoms of cystitis are burning sensation and pain when urinating. In babies, however, the symptoms are rather unspecific. They can often be falsely attributed to teething.
In babies, cystitis usually manifests itself as high fever, restlessness and increased crying. Diarrhoea and vomiting can also occur. The smell of the urine or the diaper can be foul. If the infection progresses further, the baby may refuse to drink and thus have an insufficient fluid intake. This is a warning sign and should be taken seriously.