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Systematic Bronchoscopy: the Four Landmarks Approach
Published on: June 23, 2023
Utility of bronchoscopy for recurrent croup
Robert Chun1, Diego A Preciado, George H Zalzal
1Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53226, USA.
The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|August 28, 2009
Summary
Bronchoscopy revealed airway disorders in one-third of patients with recurrent croup (RC), particularly those under 3 years old. This suggests a lower threshold for diagnostic bronchoscopy in young children with RC.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Otolaryngology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Recurrent croup (RC) can be associated with underlying airway abnormalities.
- Diagnostic evaluation for RC is crucial to identify treatable conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic utility of bronchoscopy in identifying airway disorders in patients diagnosed with recurrent croup.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 30 patients diagnosed with recurrent croup who underwent bronchoscopy over a two-year period.
- Patient data including age, history, and bronchoscopic findings were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Bronchoscopy identified airway disorders in 33.3% of patients, including subglottic stenosis, edema, and cysts.
- Children under 3 years old were significantly more likely to have an airway abnormality (64.2%) compared to older children (6.2%).
- No significant differences in findings were associated with prematurity, prior intubations, croup type, or episode frequency.
Conclusions:
- A significant proportion of patients with recurrent croup have underlying airway disorders, especially those younger than 3 years.
- A higher index of suspicion and a lower threshold for diagnostic bronchoscopy are recommended for children under 3 with recurrent croup.
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