Vesico-ureteric reflux in Singapore children--a survey of surgically treated children.

A survey of 29 cases of vesico-ureteric reflux treated surgically at the Department of Paediatric Surgery, Singapore General Hospital, between 1974 and 1981 was carried out to assess the Singapore experience with the disease. There was a 2:1 female predominance but proportionately more males presented before 6 months of age (sex ratio 1:1). In contrast to Caucasian children, the peak incidence is below one year of age, and demonstrates the importance of recognising the condition early in infancy. Correspondingly, the most frequently presenting symptom is fever, as a result of urinary tract infection. In contrast, enuresis is uncommon (unlike in Caucasian children, where the peak incidence is at a later age). There is no predilection to unilateral, bilateral or side of involvement. Ectopia lateralis and patulous ureteric orifices were the most commonly identified structural defects. E. Coli and Klebsiella were the most commonly occurring organisms among those with urinary tract infections, and Ampicillin or Bactrim was adequate for most cases.