Epiglottitis Flashcards
What is epiglottitis?
Epiglottitis is acute inflammation of the epiglottis, which can rapidly progress to severe airway obstruction, usually associated with significant systemic illness.
anatomically, where is the epiglottis?
The epiglottis is a cartilaginous flap located in the larynx
What is the epiglottitis’’ function?
Its function is to close over the opening to the airway (glottis) during swallowing. This prevents food or liquids from passing into the trachea and the lungs.
What can inflammation of the epiglottis lead to?
Airway obstruction
What is the most common cause of epiglottitis?
Infection
What pathogen is the most common cause for epiglottitis?
Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib)
What has reduce the incidence of epiglottitis?
Hib Vaccine
What other organisms can cause epiglottitis?
streptococcus pneumoniae, group A streptococci and staphylococcus aureus
Can virus’ cause epiglottitis?
Yes but is rare
What are 3 examples of viral causes of epiglottitis?
- Herpes simplex virus
- Infectious mononucleosis
- Fungal infections like candida
What are some non-infectious causes?
- Thermal injuries
- Chemical burns
- Foreign body ingestion
What are 4 risk factors for epiglottitis?
- Individuals without the Hib vaccine
- Immunocompromised patients
- Men in mid-40s
Additional co-morbidities
What are typical symptoms of epiglottitis?
Severe and acute onset of sore throat
Muffled voice
Drooling
Inspiratory stridor
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and/or painful swallowing (odynophagia)
What do most patients also report alongside epiglottitis?
A recent upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)
Do adults or children often present with a slower less severe set of symptoms?
Adults