Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

What is the recommended treatment for croup?

1. Dexamethasone

2. Prednisone

3. Albuterol

4. Hydrocortisone

The correct answer is: Dexamethasone

The recommended treatment for croup is dexamethasone, which is a corticosteroid that effectively reduces inflammation in the airways. Croup, commonly caused by viral infections, leads to swelling in the throat and larynx, resulting in characteristic symptoms like a "barking" cough and stridor. Dexamethasone helps alleviate these symptoms by decreasing the swelling, thereby improving airflow and comfort for the child. Dexamethasone is typically favored over other corticosteroids for its long duration of action and efficacy, especially in outpatient settings. It can be administered once as an oral dose, making it a convenient choice for parents and healthcare providers. While prednisone can also reduce inflammation, it is less commonly used for croup due to its longer dosing schedule and potential side effects. Albuterol, a bronchodilator, is typically used for asthma and may not specifically target the inflammatory component of croup. Hydrocortisone, although a corticosteroid, is not the first-line treatment for croup in comparison to dexamethasone. Thus, dexamethasone stands out as the appropriate and effective treatment for managing croup symptoms.