-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
respiratory system
croup
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition:
Acute laryngotracheobronchitis; an acute inflammation of the upper and lower respiratory tracts, characterized by inspiratory stridor, subglottic swelling, and respiratory distress that is most pronounced on inspiration.
etiology:
Parainfluenza viruses are the major pathogens; spread is most commonly airborne or by contact with infected secretions: Generally age group 6 mo. to 3 yrs.
signs and symptoms
signs and symptoms:
usually preceded by URI
barking, spasmodic cough, may mark the onset of inspiratory stridor, commonly at night
respiratory distress
tachypnea
obvious inspiratory retractions of the skin, e.g. above the clavicle
cyanosis with increasingly shallow respirations may develop as the child tires
auscultation reveals prolonged inspiration and stridor with expiratory rhonchi and wheezes
rales may also be present
symptoms worsen at night and may be better in mornings
lab findings:
diagnosis is clinical
course and prognosis
Obstruction increases the work of breathing and, as the child tires, results in hypercapnia. Hypoxia without hypercapnia commonly occurs due to parenchymal pulmonary infection. Atelectasis may occur if the bronchioles become obstructed.
differential diagnosis
epiglottitis
foreign body in throat
diphtheria
retropharyngeal abscess
footnotes