Nocturnal enuresis.
Nocturnal enuresis is a common problem that can be troubling for children and their families. Recent studies indicate that nocturnal enuresis is best regarded as a group of conditions with different etiologies. A genetic component is likely in many affected children. Research also indicates the possibility of two subtypes of patients with nocturnal enuresis: those with a functional bladder disorder and those with a maturational delay in nocturnal arginine vasopressin secretion. The evaluation of nocturnal enuresis requires a thorough history, a complete physical examination, and urinalysis. Treatment options include nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic measures. Continence training should be incorporated into the treatment regimen. Use of a bed-wetting alarm has the highest cure rate and the lowest relapse rate; however, some families may have difficulty with this treatment approach. Desmopressin and imipramine are the primary medications used to treat nocturnal enuresis, but both are associated with relatively high relapse rates.
Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina 29425, USA. thiedkcc@musc.edu
C Carolyn
CC
Thiedke
D000293:Adolescent; D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001521:Behavior Therapy / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D002648:Child; D003894:Deamino Arginine Vasopressin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004775:Enuresis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007099:Imipramine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012076:Renal Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D012890:Sleep / Q000502:physiology
D018759:Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors; D012076:Renal Agents; D003894:Deamino Arginine Vasopressin; D007099:Imipramine