Croup

Croup also know as laryngotracheobronchitis or laryngotracheitis has been reviewed on A4Medicine. Latest guidance has been reviewed and an easy to use visual on croup can guide the GPs in management. The dose of dexamethasone or prednisolone can often be confusing - it has been shown as per CKS guidance here.

Acute illness → mucosal swelling and inflammation of the larynx , subglottic area and upper trachea ( Laryngotracheitis , Laryngotracheobrinchitis ) Usually viral ○ Parainfluenza types 1 and 3 ( most common )○ Enterovirus○ Respiratory synctial virus○ Influenza A and B○ AdenovirusViral infection of laryngeal mucosa leads to inflammation , hyperemia , edema , epithelial necrosis and shedding → narrowing of the subglottic region Spread is usually through the air or by contact with infected secretions More common in boys than girls Usually affects children 6 months to 3 yrs of age ( some mention 6 months to 6 yrs ) Peak incidence 2nd year or life More common in late fall and early winter

Clinical features- Sudden onset of a seal- like barking cough Inspiratory stridor Hoarse voice Variable respiratory distress ( Airway obstruction ) No to moderately high fever Symptoms worse at night Absence of drooling Non...