Epiglottitis (severe throat infection)

About Epiglottitis (severe throat infection)

The epiglottis is a small flap of tissue that hangs down from the back of the throat. It helps protect the airway during swallowing by preventing food or liquid from entering the trachea. The epiglottis can become infected or inflamed (epiglottitis) causing swelling. The swelling can block the airway and result in death. Airway blockage is more common in children. The bacteria Haemophilus influenzae is the most common cause of epiglottitis. Since childhood vaccination for Haemophilus influenzae became common the number of cases of epiglottitis has decreased.

Symptoms

Throat pain, pain with swallowing, strider (noisy breathing), difficulty swallowing or speaking, fever, drooling, stiff neck.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray or CT scan can sometimes identify the swollen epiglottis. Direct visualization with a fiber optic scope (laryngoscopy) is the most accurate way of confirming the diagnosis.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, X-ray.

Conventional treatment summary

Intravenous antibiotics are given. If the airway is compromised an oral breathing tube may needed. If an oral airway cannot be inserted into the trachea a surgical airway (cricothyrotomy or tracheostomy) may be life-saving.

Medical specialties

Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Epiglottitis (severe throat infection).