10. Conditions Involving Larynx

Question 1

What is laryngitis?

Answer 1

Inflammation of the larynx, often involving true vocal cords

Infectious and non-infectious aetiology

Question 2

What are the symptoms of laryngitis?

Answer 2

Hoarse/weak voice and sore throat

History of URTI

Question 3

What are laryngeal nodules?

Answer 3

Acute trauma or chronic irritation causing nodules

Causes hoarseness of voice >3 weeks

Question 4

What can cause a compromised upper airway?

Answer 4

Laryngeal oedema - allergic reaction, swallowed foreign body
Epiglottitis - mainly in children
Croup - usually in children, barking cough, hoarse voice

Question 5

What do patients with compromised upper airway present with?

Answer 5

Strider
Raised RR
Distress
Hypoxia +/- cyanosis

Question 6

What can be used to secure the airway?

Answer 6

Supraglottic airway (iGel) - first line in cardiac arrest, not long-term
Definitive airway (intubation) - endotracheal tube, secures and protects, patient anaesthetised first