Croup Flashcards
What is croup?
An acute infective respiratory disease affecting young children
What age group is most commonly affected by croup?
Children aged 6 months to 2 years
What is the classic cause of croup that should be identified in exams?
Parainfluenza virus
How long does croup typically take to improve?
Less than 48 hours
What is the primary treatment for croup?
Steroids, particularly dexamethasone
List the common causes of croup.
- Parainfluenza
- Influenza
- Adenovirus
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
What serious condition can croup caused by diphtheria lead to?
Epiglottitis
What is the mortality risk associated with croup caused by diphtheria?
High mortality
Why is diphtheria-related croup rare in developed countries?
Vaccination
What are the typical presentations of croup? (List at least three)
- Increased work of breathing
- Barking cough, occurring in clusters
- Hoarse voice
- Stridor
- Low grade fever
What supportive treatments can be done at home for croup?
Fluids and rest
What position can help during croup attacks?
Sitting the child up
What is the recommended oral dose of dexamethasone for croup?
150 mcg/kg
How often can dexamethasone be repeated if required?
After 12 hours
What alternative medication is sometimes used if dexamethasone is unavailable?
Prednisolone
