stridor

Full Definition

Stridor is an abnormal, high-pitched respiratory sound produced by turbulent airflow through a narrowed or obstructed airway. In pediatric patients, stridor can be inspiratory, expiratory, or biphasic, with the timing providing important diagnostic clues about the location of the obstruction. Inspiratory stridor typically indicates supraglottic or glottic pathology, while expiratory stridor suggests subglottic or tracheal involvement. Biphasic stridor often indicates severe obstruction or pathology at the glottis or subglottis. Common causes in children include croup, epiglottitis, foreign body aspiration, and congenital airway abnormalities. Stridor represents a potentially life-threatening condition requiring immediate evaluation and management.

In Context

• "The toddler presented with inspiratory stridor and barking cough consistent with viral croup." — Emergency department triage note
• "Biphasic stridor in the neonate suggested severe subglottic stenosis requiring urgent intervention." — Pediatric pulmonology consultation