What is the diagnosis for a 2-day-old male newborn, born at 39 weeks gestation via spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD), with a history of lack of prenatal care, who is formula-feeding well, but has only had a single wet diaper in the first 48 hours, indicating possible impaired renal function?

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Last updated: May 4, 2025 • View editorial policy

Differential Diagnosis for a 2-day-old Boy with Decreased Urine Output

  • Single most likely diagnosis: + Dehydration due to inadequate fluid intake: The patient is formula-feeding well, but having only a single wet diaper in the first 48 hours suggests that the infant may not be receiving sufficient fluids, leading to dehydration.
  • Other Likely diagnoses: + Urinary tract obstruction or anomaly: Although the physical examination is unremarkable, the decreased urine output could be indicative of a urinary tract issue, such as posterior urethral valves or ureteropelvic junction obstruction. + Renal dysplasia or agenesis: The lack of prenatal care may have contributed to undiagnosed renal abnormalities, which could be causing the decreased urine output. + Sepsis: Although the patient appears well, neonatal sepsis can present with non-specific symptoms, including decreased urine output.
  • Do Not Miss diagnoses: + Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: This condition can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, and is crucial to diagnose early to prevent serious complications. + Renal vein thrombosis: This condition can cause decreased urine output and is a medical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. + Congenital heart disease: Some congenital heart defects can cause decreased renal perfusion, leading to decreased urine output.
  • Rare diagnoses: + Polycystic kidney disease: Although rare in neonates, this condition can cause renal abnormalities and decreased urine output. + Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: This condition is characterized by an inability to concentrate urine, leading to decreased urine output and hypernatremia. + Prune belly syndrome: This rare condition is characterized by absent or weak abdominal muscles, undescended testes, and urinary tract anomalies, which could cause decreased urine output.

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