The evaluation of urinary tract infections in children begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in a child with a urinary tract infection may include:

• Abdominal tenderness
• Tenderness over the back or flank
• Fever
• Signs of dehydration:
• Dry mouth
• Dry skin
• Depressed fontanelle in an infant

The diagnosis of a urinary tract infection in a child requires testing.

Tests that may be used to evaluate urinary tract infections in children include:

• Urinalysis
• Urine culture
• Complete blood count
• Kidney function tests

Less commonly performed tests that may be used to evaluate urinary tract infections in children include:

• Cystoscopy
• Cystogram:
• X-ray that highlights the bladder and urethra
• Intravenous pyelogram:
• X-ray study of the entire urinary tract
• Abdominal ultrasound