Nocturnal enuresis (NE) is characterized by the involuntary discharge of urine at night in those 5 years of age or older. Primary NE (PNE) is diagnosed in an individual who has , never achieved nighttime dryness; in secondary NE (SNE), incontinence follows a dry period of at least 6 months. In either, the enuresis must not be due exclusively to a medical condition or diuretic therapy. Prevalence is estimated at 5% to 10% among 5-year-olds, 3% to 5% among 10-year-olds, and 1% among those 15 years of age and older. Between 5% and 10% of cases resolve annually without treatment. (1) The causes of PNE and SNE remain unclear, although physical, neurologic, and psychological factors; genetics; sleep structure; and other medical conditions have been implicated. (2)
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