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Epiglottitis
OVERVIEW: Epiglottitis is an acute inflammation of the epiglottis, a flap of tissue above the larynx, and related structures. It can cause severe airway obstruction. Epiglottitis is a medical emergency that requires prompt emergency care.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: • Develops rapidly
• Fever
• Difficulty swallowing, drooling
• Sore throat
• Swollen glands in neck
• Difficulty breathing
• Muffled voice/cry
• Minimal cough
• Shock
CAUSES: Infection with Haemophilus influenzae (in children and adults) or Group A Streptococcus in adults.
SCOPE: The incidence of epiglottitis has dropped dramatically since the introduction of the Haemophilus b vaccine.
MOST OFTEN AFFECTED: • Epiglottitis most commonly affects children 3-7 years old, although any age can be affected.
• Infrequent in adults
• Occurs with equal frequency in males and females
RISK FACTORS: N/A
DIAGNOSIS PHYSICAL EXAMINATION: • The Physician will perform a complete physical examination to assess the degree of symptoms.
• Other airway conditions will be identified, such as croup, infection, or foreign body.
TESTS AND PROCEDURES: • Blood tests
• A sample of blood may be cultured for laboratory analysis.
• Fluid from the throat may be cultured.
• X-rays of the neck and chest may be taken to assist in diagnosis.
• The airway may be visually examined by intubation.
• A sample of spinal fluid may be obtained for laboratory analysis.
TREATMENT GENERAL MEASURES: • Acute epiglottitis requires emergency care and hospitalization.
• Mechanical breathing may be required.
• A surgical opening may be made in the neck.
• Other surgery may be required.
ACTIVITY: N/A
DIET: N/A
MEDICATIONS COMMONLY PRESCRIBED DRUGS: Antibiotics: cefotaxime, ceftriaxone
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Read drug product information.
PRECAUTIONS: Read drug product information.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Read drug product information.
Other Drugs: • Ampicillin, chloramphenicol
• Antifever medication
FOLLOW UP PATIENT MONITORING: The Physician will be seen often during hospitalization.
PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE: • H. influenzae vaccine (not 100% protective)
• Prevention with rifampin
COMPLICATIONS: Antibiotics: cefotaxime, ceftriaxone
WHAT TO EXPECT: The risk of death or serious illness is low with appropriate intervention.
MISCELLANEOUS OTHER FACTORS: N/A
PEDIATRIC: N/A
GERIATRIC: N/A
OTHERS: N/A
PREGNANCY: N/A
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