Epiglottis

Treatment

-oxygen-therapy -recognizing early warning signs of respiratory distress -possible intubation/tracheotomy -administration of pharmacologic interventions to decrease -antimicrobial therapy -corticosteroids -intensive care unit

Epiglottis

Also known as supraglottitis, is a bacterial infection of the epiglottis and the surrounding tissues. Also includes the entire supraglottic larynx (above the vocal cords), arypiglottic folds, and the subglottic airway. It can progress rapidly to a life-threatening airway obstruction. Commonly affects children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old.

What are two classic signs of Epiglottitis?

Drooling Cherry red epiglottis

What are the 4 D's clinical symptoms

Dysphasia Drooling Dyspnea Dysphonia

The most common cause of epiglottis?

Haemphilus influenza type B (Hib) (bacterial)

Definitive diagnosis

Requires direct Visualization have a red, swollen epiglottis under laryngoscopy. This procedure should be done in a controlled setting, such as an OR.

Radiographs of a hyperextended neck

Single most useful study that may demonstrate the classic *thumb sign* which is an indicative of the thickening and rounding of the epiglottis

What is the late clinical symptom which signals near complete airway obstruction?

Stridor