Stridor

Stridor is a term to describe an abnormal, high-pitched breath sound produced by abnormal, turbulent air flow with respiration . It usually represents narrowing of the large, extrathoracic airways .

Pathology

Etiology

Stridor can be caused by numerous conditions, but its presence may indicate a serious underlying pathology that requires immediate treatment . Causes of stridor include:

• infection
  • croup
  • epiglottitis
  • retropharyngeal abscess
• structural
  • laryngomalacia
  • tracheomalacia
  • subglottic stenosis
• foreign body aspiration
• tumor
• bilateral vocal cord paralysis

Radiographic features

Imaging may or may not be required depending on the suspected underlying cause.

Treatment and prognosis

Initial management should ensure the airway is patent with adequate breathing and oxygen saturation. Specific treatment will vary depending on the underlying condition.