COMMENTS ON PEDIATRIC ELIMINATION DYSFUNCTIONS - THE WHORF HYPOTHESIS, THE ELIMINATION INTERVIEW, THE GUARDING REFLEX AND NOCTURNAL ENURESIS

Aims of study: This paper addresses pediatric elimination disorders in cluding nocturnal enuresis from the perspectives of terminology (the W horf hypothesis), the elimination interview, and the guarding reflex. Methods: The elimination interview and a modern model of normal voidin g function, including the guarding reflex, are explained. Results: The language of voiding dysfunction influences our perception of it. Noct urnal enuresis, and all other voiding dysfunctions, should be evaluate d by a careful elimination interview. The guarding reflex may fit into an evolving etiologic paradigm for nocturnal enuresis. Conclusions: ( 1) Words and phrases of eliminology should aim for simplicity, clarity and accuracy. (2) Urologists need to perfect their eliminology skills vis-g-vis the elimination interview. (3) The role of the guarding ref lex in nocturnal enuresis and all other voiding dysfunctions should be critically examined.