Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is characterized by the acute inflammation of the epiglottis, vallecula, arytenoids, and aryepiglottic folds, primarily affecting the supraglottic oropharynx region. A historical note is that George Washington may have died from epiglottitis in 1799. In contemporary medicine, the gold standard for diagnosing suspected cases of epiglottitis is typically through nasopharyngoscopy and laryngoscopy, which enable direct visualization of the epiglottis. Radiographic assessment, which was previously used, has been largely replaced by these direct visualization techniques. It’s crucial to note that the emergency airway management is imperative for critically ill patients with epiglottitis to ensure their airway is adequately maintained and to prevent life-threatening complications. Epiglottitis is typically caused by infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Haemophilus influenzae type B (HIB) used to be the most common cause of epiglottitis in children, but widespread vaccination has significantly reduced this. Other bacterial culprits include Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus. In immunocompromised individuals, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida can also lead to infections. Noninfectious causes, like injuries from heat, acid exposure, or foreign object ingestion, are another common source of illness (2). While viruses don’t directly cause epiglottitis, a preceding viral infection can create conditions conducive to bacterial superinfection. Viruses such as the Varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, and Epstein Barr virus can pave the way for secondary bacterial infections.