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