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Related Experiment Videos

Acute epiglottis in adults.

Franziska Wick1, Peter E Ballmer, Alois Haller

  • 1Medizinische Klinik, Kantonsspital Winterthur. wick.f@bluewin.ch

Swiss Medical Weekly
|February 1, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Acute epiglottitis is a rare but life-threatening condition in adults, often misdiagnosed due to atypical symptoms. Early diagnosis via fiberoptic laryngoscopy and prompt airway management are crucial for preventing fatalities in adult epiglottitis cases.

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Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Emergency Medicine
  • Critical Care

Background:

  • Acute epiglottitis is a recognized pediatric illness but uncommon and frequently misdiagnosed in adults.
  • Potential for sudden upper airway obstruction makes it a life-threatening condition.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present twelve cases of acute epiglottitis in adults.
  • To highlight diagnostic challenges and management strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study of twelve adult patients diagnosed with acute epiglottitis.
  • Diagnosis confirmed by fiberoptic laryngoscopy.
  • Management followed a standardized protocol.

Main Results:

  • Common symptoms included odynophagia (100%), inability to swallow secretions (83%), sore throat (67%), dyspnea (58%), and hoarseness (50%).
  • Fever (75%) and tachycardia (50%) were frequent; stridor was present in only 42%.
  • Oropharyngeal examination was normal in 44%, necessitating fiberoptic laryngoscopy for diagnosis. Nasotracheal intubation was required in four patients.

Conclusions:

  • A high index of suspicion is essential for diagnosing adult epiglottitis due to its rarity and atypical presentation.
  • Prompt airway management, including early consideration for intubation, is critical.
  • Hospital admission to intensive care facilities is recommended for accurate diagnosis and timely intervention to reduce mortality.

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