Which common pediatric condition is characterized by a barking cough and stridor?

The condition characterized by a barking cough and stridor in children is croup. Croup is primarily caused by viral infections, most commonly the parainfluenza virus, leading to inflammation of the larynx and trachea. The inflammation results in a distinctive "barking" cough, which resembles the sound of a seal, and stridor, a high-pitched wheezing sound that occurs during inhalation due to narrowed airways. This is a classic presentation in young children, who are particularly susceptible to these viral infections.

In contrast, bronchiolitis primarily affects the small airways (bronchioles) and typically presents with wheezing and increased respiratory effort due to inflammation and mucus obstruction, rather than the barking cough and stridor associated with croup. Asthma involves reversible airway obstruction and can cause wheezing and coughing, but it does not present with the classic barking cough or stridor. Pneumonia, which is an infection of the lung parenchyma, often presents with cough and difficulty breathing, but again, lacks the characteristic barking cough and stridor seen in croup. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms specific to croup is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.