Acute laryngitis is an acute diffuse inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa. The larynx in children has unique characteristics: a narrow laryngeal cavity, loose submucosal tissue in the subglottic region, and abundant lymphatic tissue. During acute inflammation, it often manifests as redness and swelling in the subglottic area, making laryngeal obstruction prone to occur. Infants aged 6 months to 3 years are particularly susceptible to this condition. Due to its rapid onset and progression, delayed diagnosis and treatment can be life-threatening.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

1. It may be preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection or acute pestilence diseases such as influenza, measles, scarlet fever, etc., or it may occur suddenly, presenting with croup-like cough, inspiratory stridor, and dyspnea, while hoarseness is usually not severe.
2. During examination, pay attention to the degree of dyspnea and the presence and severity of hypoxia.
3. Laryngeal examination, generally without the need for direct laryngoscopy, may reveal swelling of the subglottic membrane, with the subglottis forming a narrow slit.
4. Monitor the child's overall condition, such as blood pressure, heart rate, pulse, respiration, and whether there are signs of exhaustion.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

﹝Treatment﹞

1. Antibiotics: Use sufficient and effective antibiotics to control the infection.
2. Hormone therapy: Has anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, and reduces the body's response to infection. Dexamethasone can be injected or prednisone taken orally.
3. Oxygen therapy. Adding water nebulization during oxygen therapy improves effectiveness.
4. Tracheotomy. For those with persistent grade III dyspnea after the above treatments.
5. Supportive therapy: Pay attention to nutrition, water and electrolyte balance, and vitamin supplementation.

bubble_chart Differentiation

(1) Diphtheria: The onset is slow, with obvious systemic toxic symptoms. There is a white membrane in the throat, and diphtheria bacilli can be found in smears or cultures. (2) Acute laryngotracheobronchitis: Systemic symptoms are extremely severe, including high fever, exhaustion, dehydration, hoarseness, subglottic swelling, and secretions.