Epiglottitis

What is the treatment for epiglottitis?

2nd or 3rd generation cephalosporin (cefuroxime) IV every 8 hours Dexamethasone bolus and IV every 6 hours

What may epiglottitis present as?

Could present as severe sore throat with normal oropharyngeal examination - pay attention for other symptoms

What are the 3D hallmarks of epiglottitis?

Dysphagia, drooling, and distress

What can epiglottitis lead to?

Emergent air way obstruction

What most commonly causes epiglottitis?

Group a streptococcus

What diagnostic tests are used for epiglottitis?

X ray of the lateral neck to check for thumb sign - clearly visible on x-ray The gold standard is laryngoscope visualization of the epiglottis

What is important to remember during exam for epiglottitis?

do not try to visual this pharynx/epiglottis or place a tongue depressor in the mouth - there is a risk of immediate laryngospasm and complete airway obstruction

What is epiglottitis?

inflammation of the epiglottis and adjacent structures

What are other clinical findings of eliglottitis and supraglottitis?

respiratory distress: stridor, tachypnea, anxiety, tripod position, dysphagia, drooling, anterior neck pain, muffled hot potato voice, marked retractions, pain out of proportion to oropharyngeal exam