Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 5, 2026

Separation of Immune Cell Subpopulations in Peripheral Blood Samples from Children with Infectious Mononucleosis
Published on: September 7, 2022
EBV epiglottitis: Primary supraglottic viral infection in a pediatric immunocompetent host
Alison Slijepcevic1, Daniel Strigenz2, Gregory Wiet3
1The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, OH, United States.
Insights
A healthy child developed acute epiglottitis due to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, requiring intensive care and intubation. This case highlights EBV as a potential cause of epiglottitis in pediatric patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Acute epiglottitis is a medical emergency often caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common human herpesvirus, typically causing infectious mononucleosis.
Observation:
- A previously healthy 7-year-old male presented with symptoms of acute epiglottitis.
- The patient was diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection as the primary cause.
- Management involved fiberoptic intubation and a subsequent intensive care unit (ICU) stay.
Findings:
- This case demonstrates a rare presentation of acute epiglottitis directly secondary to an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection.
- The clinical course necessitated advanced airway management and critical care support.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider EBV as a potential, albeit uncommon, etiologic agent in pediatric acute epiglottitis.
- Understanding EBV's role can refine diagnostic approaches and management strategies for severe upper airway obstruction in children.
Abstract:
In this report we describe a case in which a previously healthy 7 year-old male developed acute epiglottitis secondary to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection. This patient required fiberoptic intubation and ICU stay. We discuss epiglottitis diagnosis and management with EBV as the primary etiologic agent.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Viral Meningitis
Pneumonia I: Introduction
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Cytomegalovirus Disease
Arboviral Encephalitis
Bacterial Gastroenteritis

