In evaluating a 16-month-old boy, the respiratory therapist finds him to be in mild respiratory distress, without a fever, but with a barking-type cough. A lateral neck x-ray taken in the emergency department shows a "steeple point" narrowing of the trachea. Based on this information, which of the following would the respiratory therapist conclude is the most probable diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The "steeple point" narrowing of the trachea seen on the lateral neck x-ray is a classic sign of Laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB), commonly known as croup, which is characterized by a barking cough and mild respiratory distress without fever in children.

In Evaluating a 16-Month-Old Boy, the Respiratory Therapist Finds Him