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Acute epiglottitis in Iceland 1983-2005
Birgir Briem1, Ornolfur Thorvardsson, Hannes Petersen
1Department of Otolaryngology, Buskerud Central Hospital, Dronninggata 28, 3004 Drammen, Norway. birgir.briem@gmail.com
Auris, Nasus, Larynx
|May 27, 2008
Summary
Childhood epiglottitis has disappeared in Iceland due to Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination, with adult cases now more common. Streptococci are the leading cause, and most adults can be safely observed without airway intervention.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Epiglottitis epidemiology has shifted significantly over two decades.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination has impacted disease patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the epidemiological changes of epiglottitis in Iceland between 1983 and 2005.
- To analyze trends in causative agents, patient demographics, and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of all epiglottitis patients diagnosed between 1983-2005.
- Data collected included age, gender, microbiology, airway management, ICU admissions, and mortality.
Main Results:
- Annual incidence was 0.93/100,000, with a mean age of 33.3 years.
- Childhood epiglottitis vanished post-Hib vaccination (1989); adult cases increased non-significantly.
- Streptococci replaced Hib as the primary pathogen; mortality was 0%.
Conclusions:
- Hib vaccination has dramatically reduced childhood epiglottitis, shifting the disease to adults.
- While treatment remains challenging, observation without airway intervention appears safe for mild/moderate adult cases.
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