CROUP Flashcards
what is croup
it is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, whereby the larynx and trachea become inflamed
croup is characterised by…
stridor on inspiration, barking cough and increased work of breathing
age group croup is most common in…
6 months to 3 years old
patho of how croup develops
- upper resp infection for a few days
- virus infiltrates larynx and trachea resulting in an inflammatory response
- increased pain and oedema to the area
- oedema partially obstructs airway this stridor and increased WOB
when is stridor generally heard and why
stridor is mainly heard on inspiration because pressure in the area drops below atmospheric pressure, collapsing the airway
characteristics of mild croup
barking cough with no stridor
moderate croup characteristics
increased WOB, resting stridor, intercostal use
severe croup characteristics
cyanosed, decreased LOC, pallor, tachycardia
how adrenaline helps in croup
B2 stimulated thus bronco dilation
why dose salbutamol not work in croup
salbutamol causes brocodilation of smooth muscle, and there is limited smooth muscle in the upper airway, thus having minimal effect
prednisone mechanism of action
→ Corticosteroid with anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions.
→ Inhibits production of inflammatory mediators, prostaglandins and leukotrienes, reducing inflammatory and immune response.
how dose prednisone help in croup
suppresses immune response and inflammation thus reducing the oedema and influx of cells into the area.
