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Epiglottitis is inflammation of the cartilage that covers the trachea (windpipe).
See also: Croup
Alternative NamesSupraglottitis
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsEpiglottitis is a life-threatening disease. The epiglottis is a piece of cartilage at the back of the tongue. Its job is to close off the windpipe when swallowing. It keeps food from entering the airways, so you don't cough or choke after swallowing.
Epiglottitis is swelling of the epiglottis, which may block the windpipe and lead to breathing problems. Swelling of the epiglottis is usually caused by the bacteria Haemophilus influenzae (H. influenzae), although it may also be caused by other bacteria or viruses that lead to upper respiratory infections.
Epiglottitis is now very uncommon, but it was most common in children ages 2 - 6. Rarely, epiglottitis can occur in adults, and it may be easily overlooked in such patients.
The occurrence of epiglottitis has decreased dramatically in the United States since the H. influenzae type B (Hib) vaccine became a routine childhood immunization in the late 1980s.
SymptomsEpiglottitis begins with a high fever and sore throat. Other symptoms may include:
- Abnormal breathing sounds (stridor)
- Chills, shaking
- Cyanosis (blue skin coloring)
- Drooling
- Difficulty breathing (patient may need to sit upright and lean slightly forward to breathe)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Voice changes (hoarseness)
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. Seek immediate medical help. Do not use a tongue depressor (tongue blade) to try to examine the throat at home, as this may make the condition worse.
The health care provider will examine the voice box (larynx) using either a small mirror held against the back of the throat or a viewing tube called a laryngoscope. (See: laryngoscopy) The exam may show a swollen and red epiglottis.
Tests used to diagnose epiglottitis may include:
- Blood cultureor throat culture-- may show H. influenzae or other bacteria
- Complete blood count (CBC) -- may show a high number of white blood cells
- Neck x-rays -- may show a swollen epiglottis
The patient will be admitted to the hospital, usually an intensive care unit (ICU).
Treatment may include methods to help the patient breathe, including:
- Breathing tube (intubation)
- Moistened (humidified) oxygen
Other treatments may include:
- Antibiotics to treat the infection
- Anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids to decrease throat swelling
- Fluids given through a vein (by IV)
Epiglottitis can be a life-threatening emergency. However, with proper treatment, the outcome is usually good.
ComplicationsSpasm may cause the airways to close abruptly. In this case, death follows within minutes.
The airways may become totally blocked, which could result in death.
Calling your health care providerCall the local emergency number (such as 911) if your child has symptoms of epiglottitis, including sudden breathing difficulties, excessive drooling, and irritability.
PreventionImmunization with the Hib vaccine protects children from epiglottitis.
The bacterial infection that causes epiglottitis is contagious, so family members should be screened and treated if appropriate.
ReferencesSobol SE. Epiglottitis and croup. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2008;41(3):551-566.
Alcaide ML. Pharyngitis and epiglottitis. Infect Dis Clin North Am. 2007;21(2):449-469.
What else can I help you with?
What is the medical term meaning inflammation of the epiglottis?
Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis.
What are the characteristics of epiglottitis?
Because the epiglottis may swell considerably, there is a danger that the airway will be blocked off by the very structure designed to protect it. Air is then unable to reach the lungs. Without intervention, epiglottitis has the potential to be fatal.
What are the symptoms of epiglottitis?
A patient with epiglottitis typically experiences a sudden fever, and begins having severe throat and neck pain. Because the swollen epiglottis interferes significantly with air movement, every breath creates a loud, harsh.
Did somebody assassinate George Washington and who?
no, he was not assassinated, he died of either acute epiglottitis or quinsy
Did George Washington die from a gun shot?
No. Washington died of complications during a bout of epiglottitis.
What prevention methods are there to avoid epiglottitis?
Prevention involves the use of a vaccine against H. influenzae type b (called the Hib vaccine). It is given to babies at two, four, six, and 15 months. Use of this vaccine has made epiglottitis a very rare occurrence.
What is the prognosis for untreated hemophilus infections?
Untreated hemophilus infections--particularly meningitis, sepsis, and epiglottitis--have a high mortality rate.
What life threatening condition could the child or infant be experiencing when the child or infant looks panicked and cannot cough speak or breathe?
* Choking * Stridor * Epiglottitis
How is croup diagnosed?
When the symptoms appear to be severe, or the history suggests it, x rays may be taken to rule out epiglottitis (infection of the epiglottis) or aspiration of a foreign body
What treatment exists for patients with epiglottitis?
With treatment (including the establishment of an artificial airway), only about 1% of children with epiglottitis die. Without the artificial airway, this figure jumps to 6%. Most patients recover form the infection, and can have.
How is epiglottitis diagnosed?
An instrument called a laryngoscope is often used in the operating room to view the epiglottis, which will appear cherry-red and quite swollen. An x-ray picture taken from the side of the neck should also be obtained. The swollen.
What is the natural cure for epiglatis that is growing?
Epiglottitis, which is inflammation of the epiglottis, is a serious medical condition that typically requires prompt medical attention and often antibiotics, especially if caused by an infection. There are no established natural cures for epiglottitis; however, supportive care such as staying hydrated, resting, and using throat lozenges may help alleviate some symptoms. It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Avoid relying solely on home remedies, as this condition can quickly become life-threatening.
