The Predictive Value of Strip Method as Early Diagnostic Test for Urinary Tract Infection in Children Attending Kirkuk Pediatric Hospital

Abstract

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection causing illness in children. It is either presented with specific symptoms or may be asymptomatic especially in younger infant. It is most common cause of febrile disease in children affecting about 2% of boys and 8% of girls by the age of 11 years.
Aim: To evaluate the predictive value of strip method as a simple and non-costly method for early diagnosis of urinary tract infection in children.
Materials and methods: A cross sectional hospital based study included children attending the outpatient clinic of Paediatric General Hospital in Kirkuk city. The study conducted during the period from 1st of July to 30th of August 2017. 250 cases selected randomly from those complaining of symptoms suggesting of UTI. Their age ranged from 2 months to 12 years. Culture performed on samples with positive strip test.
Results: Of the 250 samples, 170 (68%) were positive in strip test and 52 (30.5%) were positive in culture. Gram negative bacteria are the most common isolated bacteria from the urine samples of children with uncomplicated UTI.
Conclusion: Urine dipstick test can be used as a screen to determine whether or not urine culture should be performed. This test provides a cheap approach for urine test especially in healthcare centers in rural areas