[E. coli acute pyelonephritis: prophylaxis]

Abstract

The aim of the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infections in children is to reduce renal scarring, that is associated with hypertension or end-stage renal failure decades latter. However, heterogeneity of the studies prevents clear recommendations. Recent American Academy of Pediatrics meta-analysis failed to demonstrate any effectiveness of antibioprophylaxis in the prevention of recurrent febrile urinary tract infections in infants less than 2 years of age, whatever the presence or the grade of vesicoureteral reflux. Moreover, adverse events of cotrimoxazole, which is the sole antibioprophylaxis available in France, are questionable. Long term low doses of oral cephalosporins or cotrimoxazole are known to select resistant enterobacteriae, producing extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) especially. To date, antibioprophylaxis should be discussed with urologists depending on the patient. Other preventive measures as cranberries or pre/ probiotics, are inconclusive. Surgery (or circumcision) depends on the associated uropathy. Dysfunctional elimination syndrome is frequent and has to be recognized and treated.