Epiglottitis: a review of 13 cases and a suggested protocol for management.

Thirteen cases of epiglottitis are reviewed in this paper. Fever and respiratory distress were the most common presenting symptoms. A lateral neck roentgenogram was a helpful laboratory test. Epiglottitis must be distinguished from viral croup and other causes of upper airway obstruction so that prompt treatment can be instituted. A suggested protocol for management of epiglottitis emphasizes the importance of establishing an artificial airway and administering intravenous antibiotics effective against Hemophilus influenzae type B.