CONGENITAL NEUROGENIC BLADDER DYSFUNCTION DIAGNOSTIC, APPROACH AND PREVENTION OF COMPLICATIONS

Congenital neurogenic bladder dysfunction is the most common primary c ause of urinary bladder and sphincter dysfunction and is frequently as sociated with secondary malfunction of the lower and upper urinary tra ct. Congenital and acquired abnormalities of the spinal cord are the p rimary cause of bladder dysfunction in children. Although the incidenc e of congenital neural tube defects appears to be decreasing, 95% of t he affected children still present with neurogenic bladder dysfunction as a urologic complication. Early detection and treatment is essentia l to prevent deterioration of the lower and upper urinary tract. Treat ment of congenital neurogenic bladder dysfunction should assure the fo llowing: 1. normal development of renal function; 2. bladder and bowel continence 3. self-confidence, independence social integration of the se children. To achieve these goals, an early diagnosis and regular fo llow-up is necessary.