A Case Report of Epiglottitis in an Adult Patient.

UNLABELLED

Epiglottitis is historically known to be a disease of childhood. However, since the implementation of the type B vaccination, there has been an increasing incidence within the adult population. This is a case report of a 36-year-old male who presented to the emergency department (ED) in severe respiratory distress with complaints of a sore throat, shortness of breath, odynophagia, dysphagia, and hoarseness. Physical exam revealed biphasic stridor, tachycardia, tachypnea, and an erythematous uvula. Imaging of his neck revealed findings consistent with epiglottitis containing nonspecific air. The patient was rapidly intubated, started on broad spectrum antibiotics and dexamethasone. He was admitted for intensive medical management with Otolaryngology consultation. This case report highlights the importance of rapid recognition and diagnosis of epiglottitis in an adult population to prevent morbidity and mortality.

TOPICS

Epiglottitis, stridor, odynophagia, dysphagia, , group C , thumb-print sign, intubation.