laryngotracheobronchitis (LTB) /lering′gōtrā′kē·ō′brong- kī″tis/ [Gk, larynx + L, trachea; Gk, bronchos, windpipe, itis] , an inflammation of the major respiratory passages, usually causing hoarseness, nonproductive cough, dyspnea, and, in severe cases, significant airway obstruction. Among the causes are infections by coxsackieviruses, echoviruses, Haemophilus influenzae, and Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Treatment usually includes steam inhalations, cough suppressants, and, for bacterial infections, appropriate antibiotics. See also croup.
