Differential Diagnosis for 8-year-old Male with New Onset Bedwetting
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Primary Nocturnal Enuresis: This condition is the most common cause of bedwetting in children and can be triggered by emotional stress, such as visiting a non-custodial parent. The child's age and the recent change in environment support this diagnosis.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Secondary Nocturnal Enuresis: This condition is characterized by the onset of bedwetting after a period of dryness, often triggered by psychological factors, which could include the stress of visiting the father.
- Constipation: Chronic constipation can cause urinary incontinence, including bedwetting, due to the pressure it puts on the bladder.
- Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause discomfort and lead to bedwetting, especially if the infection affects the bladder.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Diabetes Mellitus: Although less common, new onset bedwetting can be a symptom of undiagnosed diabetes due to the high glucose levels in the urine, leading to increased urine production.
- Neurological Disorders: Conditions such as spina bifida or other spinal cord abnormalities can affect bladder control, leading to bedwetting.
- Psychological Trauma: Severe psychological stress or trauma, potentially related to the visit with the father, could manifest as bedwetting.
Rare Diagnoses
- Sleep Disorders: Certain sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, can increase the likelihood of bedwetting by affecting the normal sleep cycle and bladder control.
- Urological Anomalies: Rare congenital anomalies of the urinary tract can cause bedwetting due to abnormalities in bladder function or structure.
- Neuropathic Bladder: A condition where the nerves that control the bladder are damaged, leading to problems with bladder control, including bedwetting.