Albuminuria in Pediatric Neurogenic Bladder: Identifying an Earlier Marker of Renal Disease

Abstract

ObjectiveTo investigate the role of albuminuria as a clinical marker of early renal disease in children with neurogenic bladder (NGB) in association with commonly used predictors of renal risk. MethodsCatheterized urine was obtained from 40 patients with NGB at a tertiary pediatric hospital. Albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) was analyzed for associations with estimated glomerular filtration rate, vesicoureteral reflux, hydronephrosis, bladder dynamics, and renal scarring. ResultsAbout 32% (13/40) of NGB patients had elevated ACR (≥30 mg/g. Elevated ACR was associated with Caucasian race, clean intermittent catheterization, hydronephrosis, and vesicoureteral reflux on univariate analysis. In multivariable analysis, presence of vesicoureteral reflux and use of anticholinergic medication were significant predictors of ACR elevation. ConclusionAlbuminuria is an established clinical predictor of renal disease and risk for progression to renal failure. The presence of albuminuria in NGB patients with urinary tract abnormalities suggests these patients may be at increased risk for progressive renal disease. This supports the clinical utility of adding ACR to the evaluation of renal risk in pediatric NGB.