Tracheitis natural history, complications and prognosis

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Overview

Tracheitis is caused by inflammation of the trachea. Initial presentation is characterized by cough, fever, shortness of breath and hoarseness of voice. Thick exudates develop in the trachea which increase tracheal obstruction and can cause severe respiratory distress. Common complications of tracheitis include hypotension,septic shock, acute respiratory distress syndrome, toxic shock syndrome and pulmonary edema

Natural History, Complications, and Prognosis

Natural History

• The symptoms of tracheitis usually develop in the first and second decade of life, and start with symptoms such as cough, change in voice quality and difficulty in breathing.
• The symptoms of tracheitis typically develop after exposure to viruses e.g parainfluenza, rhinovirus, metapneumovirus, adenovirus. After the prodromal viral illness develops, superimposed bacterial infection can occur and cause a more severe form of disease.
• If left untreated, affected individuals can rapidly progress to develop respiratory failure, sepsis and even death.

Complications

• Airway obstruction -- can lead to death
• Toxic shock syndrome -- caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus Aureus
• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome
• Septic Shock
• Pulmonary Edema

Prognosis

With prompt treatment, the child should recover.