Urinary Tract Infection NIH Observational Study (CUTIE)

Protocol Description

The purpose of the Careful Urinary Tract Infection Evaluation (CUTIE) study is to help doctors identify children with urinary tract infections (UTIs) who might be more likely to get kidney scars. This could help children with UTIs stay healthy.

UTIs are the most common serious bacterial infections in young children. In children younger than 6 years of age, 70,000 to 180,000 will have a UTI each year. Approximately two-thirds of young children with febrile UTIs will have an infection involving the kidneys and ureters; between 15% and 52% of these children will develop subsequent kidney scarring.

The CUTIE study is an observational study developed to understand why some children develop kidney scars after UTIs. In recent years, our understanding of the relationship of UTI and renal scarring, and current strategies for managing children with UTI have been challenged. Understanding which children are at the greatest risk of renal scarring after a UTI may allow us to provide more targeted therapies and interventions. Furthermore, by saving urine and blood in an NIH repository, we will create future opportunities to examine the genetic determinants of renal scarring in all children with UTI.

Eligibility Criteria

• At least 2 months of age, but less than 6 years old
• 1st or 2nd UTI with either fever or symptoms
• No history of VUR
• No history of other renal injury or serious disease
• No allergies to sulfa medications
• Meet a few additional eligibility requirements

Status: Closed to Enrollment

Additional Information

• UTI Additional Resources
• Careful Urinary Tract Infection Evaluation Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
• Study Personnel Directory (PDF)

Contact Information

For more information, contact Alejandro Hoberman, MD, Chief, Division of General Academic Pediatrics, at 412-999-3277.