New approaches to upper airway disease.

Although laryngotracheobronchitis is the most common upper respiratory tract disorder in pediatrics, several other diseases are potentially life-threatening. The emergency physician must recognize both the obvious and subtle distinctions among upper airway diseases. The status of the patient's airway remains the primary concern regardless of the suspected disorder, but further definitive care depends on the specific disease entity. The prompt recognition and action of both the prehospital care provider and the ED physician in maintaining a critical airway and supporting ventilation until definitive pediatric critical or surgical care can be delivered is essential in ensuring optimal outcome for children suffering from a life-threatening upper airway illness.