RESP part 3 Flashcards
1
Q
Definition of croup
A
Croup, is a viral upper respiratory tract infection most commonly by the parainfluenza virus.
2
Q
Epidemiology of croup
A
- Croup affects approximately 15% of children at some point
- Presentation mainly in late autumn to winter
- M>F
3
Q
Causes of croup
A
- Parainfluenza virus
- Adenovirus
- Influenza
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
4
Q
RFs for croup
A
- Age: typical age of presentation is 6 months to 3 years, but can be seen up to 6 years of age
- Male gender
- Prematurity: particularly in children with a history of chronic lung disease of prematurity
- ## Underlying respiratory disease
5
Q
Pathophysiology of croup
A
- Pathogen causes inflammation + swelling of larynx, trachea, and large bronchi due to migration and infiltration of white blood cells
- produces a characteristic barking cough, whilst inflammation, laryngeal oedema and secretions can lead to stridor and upper airway obstruction
6
Q
Signs of croup
A
- Pyrexia
- Stridor
- Respiratory distress
7
Q
Symptoms of croup
A
- Barking cough: worse at night
- Difficulty in breathing
- Hoarse voice
- Fever
8
Q
Investigations for croup
A
- Croup is aclinical diagnosisand does not usually require any further investigations.
- The Westley score is a classification system used to assess the severity of croup.
9
Q
Management of croup
A
Most cases can be managed at home with simple supportive treatment (fluids and rest)
10
Q
Admit patients for croup
A
- Moderate or severe croup
- Haemodynamically significant congenital heart disease
- < 3 months old
- Inadequate fluid intak
11
Q
Complications for croup
A
Superinfection
Airway obstruction
