Croup

Question 1

Croup is an _____ respiratory tract infection

Answer 1

upper

Question 2

Croup causes _____ and _______ of the larynx and airways

Answer 2

oedema and inflammation

Question 2

What age does croup typically affect?

Answer 2

6 months - 3 years

Question 2

What is the leading cause of croup?

Answer 2

Parainfluenza virus

Question 3

What are causes of croup?

Answer 3

Influenza
RSV
Rhinovirus

Question 4

What is the typical presenting feature of croup?

Answer 4

Rapid-onset “seal-like” barking cough

Question 5

What are signs and symptoms of croup?

Answer 5

Barking cough
Stridor (inspiratory noise)
Increased work of breathing
Hoarse voice
Low-grade fever

Question 6

What must you make sure you don’t do as a clinician managing the child with respiratory distress

Answer 6

Approach child calmly and don’t scare them!

Question 7

What are 2 differentials for croup which also present with stridor?

Answer 7

Epiglottitis
Foreign body

Question 8

How do you manage croup?

Answer 8

Dexamethasone (0.15 mg/kg)

May require oxygen
Nebulised budesonide
Nebulised adrenaline (decreases mucous membranes)
Intubation or ventilation