Croup Flashcards
What is croup also known as?
Laryngotracheobronchitis
What type of infection is croup?
Viral infection of the upper airways
What age group is primarily affected by croup?
Children between 6 months and 3 years
What are the classic symptoms of croup?
- Barking cough
- Stridor
- Low fever
What is a common viral cause of croup?
Parainfluenza virus
During what season is croup more common?
Autumn
What is the typical duration of barking cough and respiratory distress in croup?
1-2 days
What prodromal symptoms may occur before the classic presentation of croup?
- Coryza
- Non-barking cough
- Mild fever
How long does the prodromal period of croup last?
12-48 hours
Describe the Pathophysiology of Croup
Coryzal prodrome –> white blood cells infiltrate the larynx, trachea and large bronchi, causing inflammation.
Inflammation causes oedema which results in partial airway obstruction.
When significant, this airway obstruction dramatically increases the work of breathing and causes the characteristic turbulent airflow known as stridor.
Describe the clinical presentation of Croup
Croup is suggested by a coryzal prodrome which then progresses over 12 to 48 hours to include:
Low fever
Usually less than 38ºC
Hoarseness
Barking cough (Worse at night)
Stridor
Insidious and progressive
What is the appropriate management for mild croup?
Supportive care
Oral dexamethasone
What is the management for more moderate - Severe croup?
All children with moderate-severe illness should be admitted
Supportive care
Oral dexamethasone
Nebulised epinephrine
Supplemental oxygen
Children that present to the ED may be safely discharged home after 2 to 4 hours of observation following epinephrine administration, given they have no stridor at rest.
