A small amount of edema within the ring of the cricoid cartilage leads to a large decrease in air flow. Fibrinous exudate partially occludes the lumen of the trachea. Clinical Manifestations Insidious onset of fever, coryza, cough and sore throat. Stridor and barking cough develop on day 2-3. May be unable to maintain PO intake.
Majority appear mildly to moderately ill.
Minimal to severe respiratory distress with varying amounts of tachypnea, dyspnea, stridor, flaring and retractions. WBC mildly elevated with predominance of PMN's. The history is extremely important. It may be the only source suggestive of another process such as a foreign body. Management Make the patient comfortable.