In a randomized, controlled investigation, 349 children with pseudo-croup stage I or II were given 6 mg of dexamethasone or placebo. Although the rate of recovery was similar in both groups, there was a significant difference when only the more seriously affected children were considered: steroid treated patients recovered quicker. Steroids appear to be useful in the routine treatment of simple, uncomplicated pseudo-croup, even if their effect apparently is not very impressive. Thus, close supervision remains the most important measure in this nearly always benign but potentially dangerous condition.