RENAL GLYCOSURIA IN CHILDHOOD

When glycosuria is discovered the question immediately arises as to whether one is dealing with benign glycosuria or a pathologic disturbance of the carbohydrate metabolism. The nature of the glycosuria should always be determined, because an incorrect diagnosis may lead to an erroneous prognosis, unnecessary treatment or difficulty in obtaining life insurance. The symptoms and laboratory findings of diabetes mellitus are too well known to bear repetition. However, the group of cases referred to as renal glycosuria demand a more careful consideration, as many patients with this disturbance are often subjected to unwarranted dietetic and insulin therapy and are given an unfavorable prognosis.

CRITERIA FOR DIAGNOSIS  It has been recognized for some time that renal glycosuria occurs, but many cases so classified in the past do not answer to the present criteria for the diagnosis. The more frequent use of modern laboratory methods has made it possible to maintain a