Croup: Assessment and management

Abstract

Background: Croup is a common childhood disease characterised by sudden onset of a distinctive barking cough that is usually accompanied by stridor, hoarse voice, and respiratory distress resulting from upper airway obstruction. The introduction of steroids in the treatment of croup has seen a significant reduction in hospital admissions and improved outcomes for children. Objective: This article discusses the key aspects of diagnosing croup and the evidence supporting the different treatment strategies. Discussion: The assessment of airway, breathing and circulation, focusing on airway, is paramount in treating croup. However, it is important to take care not to cause the child undue distre..