CAUSES OF DEVELOPMENT AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF PYELONEPHRITIS IN CHILDREN

Pyelonephritis is one of the most common infectious diseases of the urinary system in childhood and represents a serious medical and social problem. The disease is characterized by inflammatory damage to the renal parenchyma and the pelvicalyceal system, mainly caused by bacterial infection. In pediatric practice, pyelonephritis often develops due to ascending infection from the lower urinary tract and is associated with congenital anomalies, immune immaturity, and functional disorders of the urinary system. The early diagnosis and proper treatment of pyelonephritis are extremely important because untreated or recurrent infections may lead to renal scarring, hypertension, and chronic kidney disease. This article analyzes the main etiological factors, pathogenesis, and clinical manifestations of pyelonephritis in children based on scientific literature. Particular attention is given to risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and characteristic symptoms observed in pediatric patients.