croup Flashcards
1
Q
what is it
A
it is also known as layngotracheobronchitis
and is an infection of the upper airway
this causes inflammation which results in the upper airway becoming obstructed
2
Q
who gets it
A
children aged 6 months - 6 years
most common in children under 3 years
majority of cases in autumn/winter
3
Q
what causes it
A
parainfluenza virus
adenovirus
influenza
bacteria as well (more serious croup)
4
Q
presentation
A
barking / seal-like cough
stridor may also be present
fevers
signs of increased work of breathing
5
Q
mx
A
mild = single dose of dexamethasone 0.15mg/kg
severe = may require hospital admission, oxygen, nebulised budesonide if PO steroid not tolerated
significant concerns about airway = nebulised adrenaline
