Differential Diagnosis for a Child with Urinary Leakage

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

• Urinary Incontinence due to Overactive Bladder: This condition is characterized by an inability to hold urine, often resulting in leakage. It's a common issue in children, especially during the potty training phase or due to an overactive bladder.

Other Likely Diagnoses

• Constipation: Chronic constipation can cause urinary incontinence in children by putting pressure on the bladder.
• Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause irritation to the bladder, leading to urgency and leakage.
• Neurogenic Bladder: A condition where a child has difficulty emptying their bladder due to a neurological condition affecting bladder control.
• Diabetes Mellitus: Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to polyuria (excessive urine production), resulting in leakage.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

• Spinal Cord Injury or Spina Bifida: These conditions can lead to neurogenic bladder, causing urinary incontinence. Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and prevention of complications.
• Tumor or Mass in the Pelvis: A tumor can compress the bladder or urethra, leading to urinary leakage. Prompt diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.
• Ectopic Ureter: A congenital anomaly where the ureter opens at a location other than the bladder, potentially causing continuous urinary leakage.

Rare Diagnoses

• Bladder Exstrophy: A rare congenital condition where the bladder is open and turned inside out, often associated with urinary incontinence.
• Prune Belly Syndrome: A rare condition characterized by the absence of abdominal muscles, undescended testicles, and urinary tract anomalies, which can lead to urinary leakage.
• Urethral Stricture or Atresia: Narrowing or blockage of the urethra, which can cause urinary retention and leakage.