1
Q
What is epiglottitis?
A
Epiglottitis, or supraglottitis, is an inflammation of the lining of the cartilaginous tissue that protects the airway during swallowing.
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. The throat should not be examined due to risk of complete airway obstruction.
Most prevalent in paediatrics aged 2-6 years.
2
Q
What are the clinical features of epiglottitis?
A
- High fever
- Sore throat/difficulty swallowing
- Stridor/respiratory distress
- Drooling
- Hoarse voice
3
Q
What are possible other causes to consider?
A
- Inhaled foreign body
- Croup
- Bacterial tracheitis
4
Q
Outline the treatment protocol for epiglottitis.
A
- Do not visualise the airway
- Calm the patient
- Allow the patient to assume a position of comfort
- Avoid IV access attempts unless active resuscitation required
- Consider O2
