Which group of children is recommended to undergo vesicoureteral reflux screening?

The recommendation for screening for vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is particularly focused on young children, especially girls under the age of 5, who have experienced a febrile urinary tract infection (UTI). This is due to the increased risk of VUR in this population, which can lead to recurrent infections, kidney damage, and other complications if left untreated. The presence of fever during a UTI in this age group raises concern for VUR, making it crucial to identify and manage the condition early to prevent long-term renal issues.

In contrast, children over the age of 10 or those with severe symptoms related to a UTI without other risk factors may not have the same elevated risk for VUR and would typically not be included in screening recommendations. Screening is more specifically targeted to younger populations with demonstrated risk factors, such as febrile episodes accompanying UTIs. Therefore, the emphasis on screening in children under 5 with febrile UTIs is grounded in a need to proactively manage potential underlying etiologies like VUR to protect renal health.