Several studies have demonstrated the important role of growth factors, particularly epidermal growth factor (EGF) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGFalpha), in cellular growth after renal damage. EGF is mainly synthesized by the kidney. Many studies indicate that urinary EGF concentration significantly decreases in patients with acute and chronic renal failure. In this study we determined urinary EGF concentrations in children with renal and/or urological pathologies. We investigated 38 patients, 17 males and 21 females, of 3.34+/-2.96 years (mean +/- standard deviation), who were followed in the Nephrologic Unit of the Pediatric Department of the University of Verona for recurrent urinary tract infections: seven of these had vesicoureteric reflux and 4 had hypodysplasia. The results were compared with those from a healthy age-matched group of 44 children. In all patients, we assessed renal function including an examination of the urine with a microbiological evaluation. Moreover, a renal ultrasound and a voiding cystourethrogram were performed.