Differential Diagnosis for Frequent Urination in a Child

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): This is a common cause of frequent urination in children, especially in girls. Symptoms can include dysuria, urgency, and abdominal pain.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Diabetes Mellitus: Type 1 diabetes is a common condition in children that can cause polyuria (frequent urination) due to high blood sugar levels. Other symptoms include polydipsia (excessive thirst) and weight loss.
• Overactive Bladder: This condition can cause children to experience urgency and frequency of urination, often without any underlying infection.
• Constipation: Chronic constipation can put pressure on the bladder, leading to frequent urination in children.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA): A serious complication of diabetes that can cause severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and even death if not promptly treated. Symptoms include polyuria, polydipsia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
• Kidney Stones: Although rare in children, kidney stones can cause severe pain, nausea, vomiting, and frequent urination.
• Spinal Cord Injury or Tumor: Any condition affecting the spinal cord can lead to neurogenic bladder, causing urinary frequency, urgency, or incontinence.

Rare Diagnoses

• Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus: A rare condition where the kidneys are unable to respond to antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive thirst and urination.
• Psychogenic Polydipsia: A condition where children drink excessive amounts of water due to psychological factors, leading to frequent urination.
• Bladder Exstrophy: A rare congenital anomaly where the bladder is open and exposed, often requiring surgical correction.