Acute urinary tract infection in infants and young children.

Is this a urinary tract infection? Yes, it could be. Urinary tract infection should be considered in the differential diagnosis for infants and young children with fever. Several studies have shown that infants with urinary tract infection often present with fever as the only symptom. The probability of infection is high in young children presenting with the factors noted in Box 1. Ask about a history of urinary tract infection. The duration and height of the fever are important: children with a fever lasting more than 48 hours or with a temperature higher than 39°C are at greater risk. A thorough physical examination should include palpation of the suprapubic area; any tenderness, even in infants, suggests a urinary tract infection.