Bacterial Tracheitis
Available!Bacterial infection of the trachea causing mucosal inflammation, thick secretions, and potentially severe upper-airway obstruction.
Typical population
Most common in young children
Respiratory Anatomy
Upper Airway
Explore diseases affecting the nose, pharynx, larynx, and proximal trachea.
Disease Library
Upper-airway conditions
Each condition will eventually include a vignette, pathophysiology, workup, management, clinical pearls, and quiz.
Croup
Available!Viral laryngotracheitis causing subglottic airway edema, barking cough, hoarseness, and inspiratory stridor.
Typical population
Most common from 6 months to 3 years
Epiglottitis
Available!Rapidly progressive inflammation of the epiglottis and supraglottic airway that can cause life-threatening airway obstruction.
Typical population
Now uncommon in vaccinated children; can occur across age groups
Peritonsillar Abscess
Available!Collection of purulent material adjacent to the tonsil causing severe unilateral throat pain, muffled voice, and uvular deviation.
Typical population
More common in adolescents and older children
Retropharyngeal Abscess
Available!Deep neck-space infection involving the retropharyngeal tissues, potentially causing dysphagia, neck stiffness, and airway compromise.
Typical population
Most common in children younger than 5 years
Sinusitis
Available!Inflammation and infection of the paranasal sinuses, often occurring after a preceding viral upper respiratory infection.
Typical population
More common after development of the paranasal sinuses
Upper Airway Foreign Body
Available!Foreign material lodged within the nose, pharynx, larynx, or proximal trachea causing focal symptoms or acute airway obstruction.
Typical population
Most common in toddlers and young children
Viral URI
Available!Acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract causing rhinorrhea, congestion, cough, and pharyngeal irritation.
Typical population
All pediatric age groups, especially young children