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Acute Emphysematous Epiglottitis: A Case Report
Ian Sunyecz1, Norman Orabi1, Steven Coutras1
1Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia, U.S.A.
The Laryngoscope
|March 17, 2023
Summary
Acute emphysematous epiglottitis, a rare bacterial infection, is increasingly seen in adults. This case highlights its presentation and management, emphasizing the need for further research into its bacterial causes.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Epiglottitis is a severe bacterial upper respiratory tract infection.
- While typically affecting unvaccinated children, adult cases are rising post-Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib) vaccination.
- Emphysematous abscesses are a rare manifestation of epiglottitis.
Observation:
- Presents a case of acute emphysematous epiglottitis in an adult.
- Details the diagnostic and management approach, including fiberoptic intubation and abscess drainage.
- Includes culture and analysis of the abscess to identify bacterial etiology.
Findings:
- Confirms the occurrence of emphysematous epiglottitis in an adult patient.
- Successful management through intubation, drainage, and targeted antibiotic therapy (based on culture results).
- Highlights the limited understanding of the specific bacterial agents involved in emphysematous epiglottitis.
Implications:
- Suggests a potential increase in adult epiglottitis, including rare forms like emphysematous abscesses.
- Underscores the importance of considering epiglottitis in adults presenting with severe upper airway obstruction.
- Calls for further research into the microbiology and evolving epidemiology of epiglottitis in the post-Hib vaccine era.
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