Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
croup
Acute viral laryngotracheobronchitis causing characteristic barking cough and inspiratory stridor in young children.
Full Definition
Croup is a common pediatric respiratory illness typically caused by parainfluenza viruses, affecting children aged 6 months to 6 years. The condition involves inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi, leading to the characteristic barking cough, inspiratory stridor, and hoarse voice. Mild cases can be managed at home, while severe cases may require hospitalization for airway management and corticosteroid treatment.
Usage
Usage note: Often misspelled as 'croup' when referring to other conditions; ensure context clearly indicates respiratory illness.
In Context
- "The patient presented with classic croup symptoms including barking cough and biphasic stridor." — Emergency department note
- "Nebulized epinephrine was administered for moderate croup with significant respiratory distress." — Treatment protocol
Also known as
laryngotracheobronchitis
viral croup
Don't confuse with
epiglottitis
bacterial tracheitis