Respiratory - Croup and Epiglottitis Flashcards
Who is affected by croup?
6 months to 2 year olds
(can be older)
Where does croup affect in the respiratory tract?
URTI
Causes oedema in the larynx
Laryngotracheobronchitis
What causes croup?
Parainfluenza virus
Influenza
Adenovirus
RSV
Used to be caused by diptheria which caused epiglottitis, rare in developed countries now
How does croup present?
Seal barking cough
Stridor
Low grade fever
Laboured breathing
Hoarse voice
How is croup managed?
Single dose of oral dexamethasone
Mostly at home with fluids and rest
Sit them up during attacks and comfort them
Hand washing and stay off school
How can severe croup be managed?
Oral deaxmethasone
Oxygen
Nebulised budesonide
Nebulised adrenaline
Intubation and ventilation
What is the most common cause of epiglottitis?
Haemophilus influenza type B
Life threatening emergency
Why is epiglotitis rare nowadays?
Vaccination of all children against haemophilus
How do children with epiglottitis present?
Sore throat and stridor
Drooling
Tripod position
Muffled voice
High fever
Septic and unwell appearance
What investigations should be performed in children with epiglottitis?
Lateral xray of the neck
Thumb sign
How is epiglottitis managed?
Do not distress the patient as can cause closure of airway
Preparation for intubation
(Additional treatment) once ariway is secure
IV ceftriaxone
Dexamethasone
What is a common complication of epiglottitis?
Epiglottic abscess
