They are almost always caused by a bacteria, though viruses can occasionally also inflame the bladder. Urinary tract infections are relatively uncommon in boys, though more common in u ncircumsized infants. This will be discussed further below. Bacteria from the rectum and vaginal area can live around the outside of the urethra, and travel up inside the bladder. Constipation in both girls and boys can occasionally lead to urine infections as well.
Girls can also have structural problems inside that can lead to an infection.
We need to examine and culture the urine. We can often tell right away by looking at the urine using sensitive chemical and microscopic tests, where we find white and red blood cells and bacteria. To truly diagnose a urine infection, we must culture the urine and see if it grows bacteria. This can take anywhere from 12-48 hours. Your physician will prescribe an antibiotic for 7-10 days.