Epiglottis and supraglottitis

Question 1

define epiglottis

Answer 1

infection of supraglottis

-can cause airway compromise due to inflammation and swelling

-airway emergency in children -dont go near them if suspected- call anaethtics

Question 2

who gets epiglottitis

Answer 2

use to be children age 2-6
-since introduction of H influzae B vaccination
-now extremely rare in children

may be more common in adults

Question 3

presenation of epiglottitis 5

Answer 3

rapid onset of high fever

sore throat
inability to control secretions

classic tripod positioning

difficulty breathing

irritability

Question 4

diagnosis of epiglottitis 3

Answer 4

made on clincial grouds

control airway if epiglottitis is suspected

laryngoscopy to confirm

lateral neck radiograph