Croup Flashcards
What is croup?
upper respiratory tract infection causing oedema in the larynx.
What classically casues croup
Parainfluenza virus
What age range is classically affected by croup
6 months to 2 years
How long does croup take to improve?
48 hours
Treatment for croup
Dexamethasone
Causes of croup
Parainfluenza
Influenza
Adenovirus
RSV
What used to cause epiglottitis in croup?
Diptheria causing croup
Now v rare due to vaccination - had a high mortality rate
Presentation of croup
Increased work of breathoing
Barking cough - clusters of coughing episodes
Hoarse voice
Stridor
Low grade fever
Managmenet of croup
Supportive - fluids and rest
Sit child up and comfort in atttacks
Measures to stop spread of infection
Treatment with dexamethasone for croup
Single dose 150 mcg/kg
Can be repeated after 12 hours
Severe stepwise treatment for croup
Oral dexamethasone or prednisolone
Oxygen
Nebulised budesonide
Nebulised adrenalin
intubation and ventialtion
