Epiglottitis

Question 1

What is epiglottitis?

Answer 1

Cellulitis of the supraglottis with the potential to cause airway compromise

Question 2

What are the common organisms causing epiglottitis?

Answer 2

Haemophilus influenzae B

Question 3

What is the pathophysiology of epiglottitis?

Answer 3

Localised oedema of supraglottis can cause airway narrowing

Question 4

What are the clinical features of epiglottitis?

Answer 4

Rapid onset
Fever
Stridor 
Drooling
'Leaning forward' posture

Question 5

What is key about how to approach epiglottitis?

Answer 5

Keep child calm - can worsen airway compromise

Question 6

What investigations are done for suspected epiglottitis?

Answer 6

Lateral neck x-ray

Laryngoscopy

Question 7

What is the management of epiglottitis?

Answer 7

Refer urgently

Secure airway
Oxygen
IV abx