Bacterial Tracheitis
Coming soonBacterial infection of the trachea causing mucosal inflammation, thick secretions, and potentially severe upper-airway obstruction.
Typical population
Most common in young children
Coming soon
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
Coming soonRapidly progressive inflammation of the epiglottis and supraglottic airway that can cause life-threatening airway obstruction.
Typical population
Can occur at any age; less common after routine Hib vaccination
Coming soon
Peritonsillar Abscess
Coming soonCollection 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
Coming soon
Retropharyngeal Abscess
Coming soonDeep 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
Coming soon
Sinusitis
Coming soonInflammation 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
Coming soon
Upper Airway Foreign Body
Coming soonForeign 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
Coming soon
Viral URI
Coming soonAcute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract causing rhinorrhea, congestion, cough, and pharyngeal irritation.
Typical population
All pediatric age groups, especially young children
Coming soon