Acute Respiratory Illnesses in Paediatrics Flashcards
What causes pneumonia?
It is caused by a virus, bacteria or mycoplasma
What occurs during the immune response to infective process of pneumonia?
- release of cytokines
- subsequent inflammation and cell destruction
- alveoli fill with fluid made of various white blood cells
- oxygenation is impaired as a result
What are the early signs of pneumonia?
- cough
- pyrexia
- breathlessness
- chest pain
- vomiting
- convulsions
- loss of consciousness
How is pneumonia diagnosed?
Chest x-ray
What is involved in the general management of pneumonia?
- antibiotic therapy
- pain relief
- fluids
What is the most common severe lower respiratory tract disease in infancy?
Bronchiolitis
What is bronchiolitis?
A viral infection of the respiratory tract commonly caused by Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
What pathophysiology is involved in bronchiolitis?
- acute inflammation, oedema and necrosis of the epithelial cells lining the bronchioles
- immune response
- bronchospasm
- obstruction of the small airways
Clinical presentation of bronchiolitis
- runny nose
- lethargy
- coughing
- auscultation: wheeze +/- fine inspiratory crackles
- increased work of breathing
What is the common name for pertussis, and what causes it?
Whooping cough is caused by the organism Bordatella pertussis
Clinical presentation of pertussis
- cold like symptoms for 7-10 days
- paroxysmal cough with thick tenacous sputum
- hypoxia and apnoea, leading
Clinical presentation of pertussis
- cold like symptoms for 7-10 days
- paroxysmal cough with thick tenacous sputum
- hypoxia and apnoea, leading to seizures, intracranial bleeding and encephalopathy
Is there any indication for physiotherapy for the management of pertussis?
No
What is croup?
Inflammation of the upper airway triggered by recent infection
What are the common symptoms of croup?
- coryzal, harsh barking cough
- hoarse voice
- stridor
- respiratory failure
