1. Background

• if upper airway obstruction occurs, the principle site of obstruction is usually the subglottic area
• laryngitis may be acute, subacute, or chronic

2. Etiology

1. Prodrome

• upper respiratory tract infection

2. Respiratory Manifestations

• hoarseness with a sore throat
• cough (croup-like)
• pharyngeal hyperemia (inflammation)

3. Complications

• upper airway obstruction:
  • may range from mild inspiratory and expiratory stridor to severe respiratory distress

1. Direct Laryngoscopy

• inflammatory edema of the vocal cords and subglottic tissue

2. Throat Culture

• swab for C & S

1. Supportive

• respiratory support with severe or life-threatening upper airway obstruction, i.e., intubation, tracheostomy
• moistened air
• rest voice

2. Medical

• antibiotic therapy for bacterial causes

3. Prognosis

• self-resolving