Which condition is characterized by hoarseness due to laryngeal obstruction in children?

Croup is a condition that primarily affects young children and is characterized by hoarseness due to laryngeal obstruction caused by inflammation of the larynx and surrounding structures. This inflammation typically results from viral infections, most commonly the parainfluenza virus, leading to swelling that can cause stridor, a high-pitched wheezing sound when breathing in, and a barking cough.

The distinguishing features of croup include the sudden onset of symptoms, especially at night, along with the distinctive cough and hoarse voice. These symptoms occur due to the swelling in the airway that restricts airflow, leading to the characteristic stridor and hoarseness.

In contrast, laryngitis, while also involving inflammation of the larynx, does not typically present with the same level of airway obstruction as seen in croup, and is often associated with viral infections or overuse of the voice rather than a specific infectious cause related to croup. Bronchiolitis primarily affects the small airways in the lungs and is mostly seen in infants, unlike croup. Asthma is a chronic condition that can lead to wheezing and difficulty breathing, but it is not primarily characterized by the hoarseness or barking cough associated with croup.