Epiglottitis
This is a severe inflammation of the epiglottis and the structures surrounding it, resulting in severe upper airway obstruction and which is usually associated with toxemia. Hemophilus ingluenzae type B is considered as the etiologic agent of Acute Supraglottic laryngitis or also called as epiglottitis. This is transmitted by direct contact or a droplet infection.
Clinically, children with this disease will present with nasal catarrh then high fever follows and severe respiratory distress. There will be cyanosis, fast breathing, retractions and that the child will have toxemia and air hunger. In physical examination, the epiglottis will appear large and cherry-red. The epiglottis can be seen with a bright light focused on it as the child cries. Physicians are extremely careful not to depress the tongue during examination since this may cause sudden death due to cardiorespiratory arrest.
This disease must always be considered as an emergency. While preparing the patient for a tracheostomy or an intubation, an aerosol of racemic epinephrine may be given. Oxygen is administered. Antimicrobial therapy together with antipyretics and parenteral fluids are also indicated.