From the Guidelines
A bladder volume of 76ml on a bladder scanner for a 20-month-old child indicates that the child is producing urine, which is a positive sign of normal urinary tract function. This volume is within normal range for a toddler of this age, as children typically have a bladder capacity of approximately 1 ounce (30ml) per year of age plus 2 ounces. For a 20-month-old, an expected capacity would be around 60-90ml 1. The presence of urine in the bladder confirms that the kidneys are filtering blood and producing urine, which is then stored in the bladder until voiding.
Some key points to consider in this context include:
- Normal urine production in toddlers is approximately 1-2ml/kg/hour, so this volume is consistent with expected urine production for a child this age.
- Monitoring wet diapers (expecting 4-6 wet diapers daily) would provide additional information on urinary output if concerns arise.
- The child's urinary tract function appears to be normal based on this single measurement, but ongoing monitoring may be necessary to confirm this assessment.
- It is essential to consider the child's overall health and any potential underlying conditions that could impact urinary tract function when interpreting this finding.
Given the information provided and the current understanding of pediatric urinary tract function, the presence of 76ml of urine in the bladder of a 20-month-old child is a reassuring sign. However, if concerns about urinary output or other related issues arise, further evaluation and monitoring may be necessary to ensure the child's overall health and well-being 1.
From the Research
Bladder Scanner Readings in Children
- A reading of 76ml on a bladder scanner for a 20-month-old child may indicate the presence of urine in the bladder, but the accuracy of this measurement depends on various factors, including the child's position and the type of scanner used 2, 3.
- Studies have shown that portable ultrasound bladder scanners can be used in children less than three years old, but the accuracy may be lower in this age group, especially for higher bladder volumes 2.
- The accuracy of bladder scanning in children can be affected by the child's position, with standing scans potentially being more accurate than supine scans 3.
- However, bladder scanning in general may have poor accuracy, especially in younger children, and should be used with caution 3.
Normal Bladder Capacity in Children
- The normal bladder capacity in children can vary depending on age, but it is generally estimated to be around 100-200 ml in children under three years old 4, 2.
- A post-void residual (PVR) urine volume of more than 30% of the age-expected bladder capacity may be considered abnormal 4.
- However, the definition of abnormal PVR volume can vary depending on the source and the specific clinical context 5.
Clinical Implications
- A bladder scanner reading of 76ml in a 20-month-old child may indicate the need for further evaluation or monitoring to determine if the child is able to empty their bladder properly 4, 2.
- The use of alpha-blockers or other medical therapies may be considered in some cases of urinary retention or bladder dysfunction in children, but this would depend on the specific clinical context and the child's individual needs 4, 6.