Body build - Is it a factor in acute subglottic laryngitis?

Acute subglottic laryngitis (pseudocroup) is caused by viral infection and usually occurs in children from 6 months to 4 years of age. Obese children are considered to be more susceptible to the disease. In order to evaluate the influence of nutritional status on acute subglottic laryngitis occurrence, an analysis of 193 patients was performed; A group of 70 age-matched healthy children served as the control subjects. The nutritional status of children (body weight and height) was assessed and their percentile positions on the weight and weight-height charts were determined. The recurrence of pseudocroup coexistence of allergy and breast-feeding history were considered in the study. Results of statistical analysis indicate no significant difference in weight and weight-height percentile distribution between patients group and controls. The recent changes in child nutrition might be the explanation of decreased susceptibility to pseudocroup among overfed children. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.