Eosinophilic cystitis in the pediatric population: AÂ case series and review of the literature

PurposeEosinophilic cystitis is a rarely seen condition in the pediatric population with indistinct symptomatology and non-standardized treatment protocols. We review our experience of treating patients with this condition.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed the records of four patients from a single institution who have been diagnosed and treated for eosinophilic cystitis. In addition, the literature was reviewed for cases of pediatric eosinophilic cystitis. Our patients were added and compared to this cohort.ResultsOur patients included 3 females and 1 male who range in age from 5 days to 18 years (5 days, 1 month, 7 years, 18 years). Both of the infants presented with a suprapubic mass and bilateral hydroureteronephrosis. The two older patients both had dysuria while the 18 yo also complained of fatigue, flank pain, and hematuria. Only 2 of the 4 patients were found to have significant peripheral eosinophilia and only one patient had eosinophiluria. All of the patients were diagnosed via cystourethroscopy with biopsy. Treatment in each case consisted of a combination of steroids, antihistamines, and antibiotics.ConclusionsThe presentation of eosinophilic cystitis is varied and diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion. Cystourethroscopy with biopsy is essential to establish the diagnosis as there is no typical appearance of the lesions or presenting signs/symptoms. Most cases of eosinophilic cystitis are responsive to medical therapy although in some cases recurrence may be noted.