Croup Flashcards
What is croup also known as?
Laryngotracheobronchitis
What is croup?
A common respiratory disease of childhood affecting the trachea, bronchi and larynx
What is croup characterised by?
Sudden onset of seal-like barking cough
What causes croup?
A viral infection that leads to swelling of the larynx, trachea and large bronchi
What causes the swelling of the airways in croup?
Infiltration of white blood cells
What does swelling of the airways lead to?
Obstruction
What can happen in severe cases?
Obstruction causes increased work of breathing and stridor
What organisms typically cause croup?
Parainfluenza virus types 1 or 3
What are the risk factors for croup?
- Age 6 months - 6 years
- Male sex
- Prior intubation
How does croup typically present?
- Barking cough
- Hoarse voice
- Difficulty in breathing
- Rasping sound when breathing
How is croup diagnosed?
Largely a clinical diagnosis
How is croup treated?
It is typically self-limiting within 48 hours
What advice should parents be given for supportive management?
- Sit child upright
- Give them fluids
- Comfort the child
What can often make the symptoms of croup worse?
Crying
If croup requires medical management, how should it be classified?
Mild, moderate or severe
