Laryngotracheobronchitis - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

medical condition

Laryngotracheobronchitis, commonly known as croup, is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi. It is most often seen in young children and is characterized by a distinctive barking cough, hoarseness, and difficulty breathing. The condition typically results from a viral infection and can often be managed at home, although severe cases may require medical attention.

Synonyms

bronchitis, croup, laryngitis.

Examples of usage

The child was diagnosed with laryngotracheobronchitis after showing symptoms of a barking cough.
Laryngotracheobronchitis is common during the fall and winter months.
Parents should monitor their children for respiratory distress due to laryngotracheobronchitis.
Treatment for laryngotracheobronchitis often includes steam inhalation and steroids.

Interesting Facts

Health

This condition is commonly known as croup in children, characterized by a barking cough and respiratory distress.
It often results from viral infections, particularly during the fall and winter seasons when respiratory illnesses are at their peak.
Symptoms typically include hoarseness, a cough that sounds like a seal barking, and difficulty breathing, all signaling inflammation in the throat.

Epidemiology

Croup primarily affects children aged 6 months to 3 years due to their smaller airway size and susceptibility to infections.
Severe cases can lead to hospitalization, although many children recover with appropriate home care and monitoring.
While viral causes are most common, bacterial infections can also lead to a more severe form of the illness.

Cultural References

Croup is often a topic of discussion in parenting circles, as parents share experiences and effective home remedies.
In literature, stories of sickness, including conditions like croup, highlight the vulnerability of children and the anguish of parents.
The depiction of respiratory illnesses is also common in films and media, emphasizing the importance of respiratory health in narrative arcs.

Treatment and Management

Treatment often includes the use of humidifiers, steam inhalation, and sometimes steroids to reduce inflammation.
Supportive care, like keeping a calm environment, is key, as anxiety can exacerbate breathing difficulties.
It underscores the importance of monitoring symptoms closely, especially in young children, to prevent complications.

Origin of 'laryngotracheobronchitis'

Main points about word origin

The word is derived from Greek roots: 'larynx' (voice box), 'trachea' (windpipe), and 'bronchi' (air tubes), combined with the suffix 'itis' which means inflammation.
Historically, medical terms were often created using Latin and Greek to describe symptoms or parts of the body in a universal language for doctors.
The term emphasizes the intricate connection between different parts of the respiratory system and how inflammation can affect them all.

The term laryngotracheobronchitis is derived from several components that reflect the areas of the respiratory system affected by this condition. The prefix 'laryngo-' comes from the Greek 'larynx', which refers to the voice box, while 'tracheo-' pertains to the trachea, the windpipe that connects the larynx to the bronchi. The suffix '-bronchitis' indicates inflammation of the bronchi. The word brings together the Latin and Greek roots to describe the inflammation of the entire airway from the voice box down through to the bronchi. Historically, the symptoms of croup have been recognized since ancient times, though modern medical understanding has evolved significantly. The recognition of the viral nature of the disease marked a significant advancement in the treatment and management of the condition in children.

Laryngotracheobronchitis Meaning: Definition and Examples