Laboratory Studies
Obtain bacterial culture and Gram stain of tracheal secretions and blood cultures in patients with suspected bacterial tracheitis.
Imaging Studies
Radiography of the neck may be indicated.
- Neither definitive nor essential
- Portable, not in the radiology suite, only in the stable patient
- May reveal clouding of tracheal air column or irregular tracheal margin on lateral view
- Concretions of epithelium and inflammatory cells possibly mimicking a foreign body
Procedures
Laryngotracheobronchoscopy is indicated.
- Only definitive means of diagnosis
- Direct visualization and culture of purulent tracheal secretions
- May be therapeutic by performing tracheal toilet and stripping purulent membranes
- Pediatric-sized bronchoscopes and experts at pediatric airway management not available at all facilities
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