Epiglottitis Flashcards
(8 cards)
What is Epiglottitis?
Inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis caused by infection.
Life threatening.
What infection is Epiglottitis typically caused by?
Haemophilus influenza type B.
Non infectious causes can include trauma such as thermal burns to the area.
Why is Epiglottitis now rare?
Due to the routine vaccination programme that vaccinates all children against it.
What are the presentations of Epiglottitis?
- sore throat and stridor
- drooling
- tripod position - sat forward with a hand on each knee
- high fever
- muffled voice
- use of accessory muscles
- difficulty or painful swallowing
- scared and quiet child
- septic and unwell appearance
What investigations are performed for Epiglottitis?
Don’t perform investigations! Lateral X-ray of the neck shows characteristic ‘thumb signs’ or‘thumbprint sign’caused by the oedematous and swollen epiglottis.
Neck x-rays are also useful to exclude a foreign body.
What is the management for Epiglottitis?
Emergency management is crucial due to the immediate risk of airway closure. Alert senior paediatrician and anaesthetist, ensure the airway is secure, prepare for intubation, and consider tracheotomy if necessary. Once secure, administer IV antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone) and steroids (dexamethasone).
What is the prognosis for Epiglottitis?
Most children recover without intubation, and most patients that are intubated can be extubated after a few days. Death can occur in severe cases or if it’s not diagnosed/managed in time.
What is a common complication of Epiglottitis?
Development of an epiglottic abscess, which is a collection of pus around the epiglottis.
It has similar treatment to Epiglottitis.
