A relatively common illness in young children, primarily those younger than 3 years of age, who present with variable fever, inspiratory stridor (difficulty in moving enough air through the larynx), hoarseness, and a harsh, barking, nonproductive cough is called

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acute laryngotracheobronchitis, or croup, is a relatively common illness in young children, primarily those younger than 3 years of age. Of significance, croup can represent a potentially more serious disease if the infection extends downward from the larynx to involve the trachea or even the bronchi. Illness is characterized by variable fever, inspiratory stridor, hoarseness, and a harsh, barking, nonproductive cough. These symptoms last for 3 to 4 days, although the cough may persist for a longer period. In young infants, severe respiratory distress and fever are common symptoms. Similar to the etiologic agents of laryngitis, viruses are a primary cause of croup; parainfluenza viruses are the major etiologic agents. In addition to parainfluenza viruses, influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, and adenoviruses can also cause croup. Mycoplasma pneumoniae, rhinoviruses, and enteroviruses can cause a few cases as well.

A Relatively Common Illness in Young Children, Primarily Those Younger