Epiglottitis

Question 1

Epiglottitis involves _____ and ____ of the epiglottis usually due to infection

Answer 1

inflammation and swelling

Question 2

True or false: epiglottitis is a life-threatening emergency?

Answer 2

True

Question 3

What are the 2 main causes of epiglottitis?

Answer 3

Haemophilus influenzae type B
Streptococcus pneumoniae

Question 4

What is the peak age incidence of epiglottitis?

Answer 4

2-7 year olds

Question 5

What are typical symptoms of epiglottitis?

Answer 5

Sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Painful swallowing
High fever
Stridor
Drooling
Muffled “hot potato” voice

Question 6

What position do children often take when struggling with epiglottitis?

Answer 6

Tripod position

Question 7

What investigations are done for epiglottitis?

Answer 7

Do not want to scare child and worsen airway obstruction.

Lateral x-ray of neck characteristically shows the “thumb sign”

Question 8

how is epiglottitis managed?

Answer 8

Avoid upsetting child.
Alert most senior paediatrician and anaesthetist available.
Hold oxygen mask near face.

Secure airway and prepare to intubate at any time.
Tracheostomy if fail to intubate.
Once airways secure, give IV antibiotics.
Systemic steroids may also be given.

Question 9

What IV antibiotic is often given for epiglottitis?

Answer 9

Ceftriaxone