How Sensitive are Dipstick Urinalysis and Microscopy in Making Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Infection in Children?

Background: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common reason for referral to the emergency department (ED) especially in unwell infants. Upper UTIs are particularly at risk of significant complications later in life. Rapid dipstick urinalysis and microscopy are often used in unwell children as a screening tool to guide early diagnosis and treatment.