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Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Urine Collection and Novel UTI Biomarkers in Children and Older Adults

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, but it's often hard to diagnose them correctly in very young children and older adults. In children, it's easy for urine samples to get mixed with other things, leading to wrong results. In older adults, bacteria can be present in urine without causing an actual infection, making it tricky to tell if treatment is needed. This study, called COLLECT-UTI, wants to improve how UTIs are diagnosed in these groups. Researchers will look for new signs in urine samples that can accurately tell if someone has a real UTI, a contaminated sample, or just harmless bacteria. This could help ensure people only get antibiotics when they truly need them.

At a glance

Status
Not yet recruiting
Sponsor
Queen's University, Belfast
Enrolment target
230
Start
17 Aug 2026
Estimated completion
17 Aug 2029
UTI - Urinary Tract Infection

What is this study about?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a very common problem, but they can be tricky to diagnose, especially in young children and older adults. For example, if a young child isn't toilet-trained, it's easy for their urine sample to get mixed up with something else, which can make it look like they have an infection when they don't. This can lead to them being given antibiotics they don't need.

In older adults, it's common to have bacteria in their urine without actually having an infection – this is called 'asymptomatic bacteriuria'. It can be hard for doctors to tell if these bacteria are causing a problem or if they're just harmless. Because of this difficulty, both groups sometimes end up getting antibiotics they don't need, or even being admitted to hospital unnecessarily. Taking antibiotics when they're not needed can also contribute to bacteria becoming resistant to these medicines, making future infections harder to treat.

This study, called COLLECT-UTI, aims to find better ways to diagnose UTIs in these two groups. Researchers will examine urine samples to look for new 'markers' – these are like clues that can tell the difference between a true infection, a contaminated sample, or just harmless bacteria. By finding these new markers, the hope is to develop more accurate tests so that children and older adults only receive treatment when it's truly needed, improving their care.

Key takeaways

  • The study aims to improve UTI diagnosis in young children and older adults.
  • It seeks new ways to tell true infections from harmless bacteria or contaminated samples.
  • Participants' routine urine samples and medical information will be used.
  • No extra tests or procedures are required for taking part.
  • The goal is to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use and hospital visits.
  • Participation involves no direct risks and helps future patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of people: children under 5 years old who are not yet toilet-trained, and adults aged 65 years or older. Both children and older adults would be considered if they are having urine tests because their doctor suspects they might have a UTI.

To be included, a routine urine dipstick test (a quick test often done by nurses or doctors) needs to show signs of infection, specifically nitrates or white blood cells. Also, there must be a small amount of urine left over after all the usual hospital tests have been done, as this 'leftover' urine will be used for the study.

However, some people won't be able to join. This includes anyone who has already started taking antibiotics for an infection in the last two days (48 hours), or if they are unable to give their informed consent to take part in the study.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

  1. Are you an adult aged 65 or over, or is your child under 5 and not toilet-trained?
  2. Are you/is your child having urine tests today because a UTI is suspected?
  3. Does the urine dipstick test show signs of infection (nitrates or white blood cells)?
  4. Have you/has your child *not* taken antibiotics for an infection in the last 2 days?
  5. Is there a small amount of urine left after all routine hospital tests are done?
Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

Taking part in this study is quite simple because it uses information and samples collected during your usual hospital care. You won't need any extra visits or special tests just for the study.

If you or your child are eligible and agree to take part, the study team will record some of your medical information, like symptoms and results from your routine urine tests. They will also keep track of how you or your child are doing over the next 14 days, using information from your medical records. The main part of your participation involves allowing the researchers to use a small amount of urine that would otherwise be thrown away after your routine urine tests are complete. This 'leftover' urine will be used to look for new markers of infection. You will not need to take any study-specific medication. The total duration of your direct involvement is minimal, as it relies on existing care.

Potential risks and benefits

There are no significant risks involved in taking part, as the study uses information and leftover urine samples from your routine care, so no extra procedures are needed. You might benefit indirectly as your participation contributes to medical knowledge that could lead to better UTI diagnosis for future patients. You have the right to change your mind and withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and this will not affect the medical care you receive.

Locations (1)

  • Queen's University Belfast
    Verified postcode
    Belfast, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a UTI?

A UTI, or Urinary Tract Infection, is an infection in any part of your urinary system, like your bladder or kidneys. It's usually caused by bacteria.

What are 'novel biomarkers'?

'Novel biomarkers' are new signs or clues found in the urine that can help doctors tell if there's a real infection or just harmless bacteria.

Will I get extra tests if I join?

No, you won't get any extra tests. The study uses information and a small amount of urine left over from tests you would have anyway during your hospital visit.

Who is funding this research?

The information provided does not specify the funding source for this research study.

How will this study help patients?

It aims to improve how UTIs are diagnosed in children and older adults, which could lead to more accurate treatment, fewer unnecessary antibiotics, and better health outcomes for everyone.

How to find out more

Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.

Interested in taking part?

Register your interest

Share your details and the research team for "Urine Collection and Novel UTI Biomarkers in Children and Ol…" will contact you if you may be eligible. Always speak to your GP before agreeing to take part.

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