Croup and Laryngeal Inflammation

Abstract

Croup is a syndrome that is most commonly caused by acute epiglottitis and acute laryngotracheobronchitis. The site of inflammation determines the characteristic symptoms and may influence the choice of therapy. When medical therapy fails, an alternative airway must be established by intubation or tracheostomy. In acute laryngotracheobronchitis, intubation is preferred, but after several days this should be replaced by tracheostomy. In acute epiglottitis, tracheostomy is the preferred method of maintaining an airway.