membranous croup

croup

[kro̳p] a condition resulting from acute partial obstruction of the upper airway, seen mainly in infants and young children; characteristics include resonant barking cough, hoarseness, and persistent stridor. It may be caused by a viral infection (usually a parainfluenzavirus), a bacterial infection (usually Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Streptococcus pyogenes,) an allergy, a foreign body, or a tumor.bacterial croup (membranous croup) (pseudomembranous croup) bacterial tracheitis.

membranous croup

Inflammation of the larynx with exudation forming a false membrane. Synonym: croupous laryngitis

Symptoms

Symptoms include those of laryngitis: loss of voice; noisy, difficult, and stridulous breathing; weak, rapid pulse; livid skin; and moderate fever.

Etiology

Several viruses may cause this disease. These include parainfluenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and various influenza viruses.

Treatment

Antibiotics are indicated only if there is secondary bacterial infection; corticosteroids are of no benefit. If hypoxia is present, inhalation of a 40% concentration of well-humidified oxygen is indicated. This is best accomplished by a face mask.

Membranous croup

membranous croup

croup