[Acute epiglottitis in childhood].

Report on 44 cases of acute epiglottitis in childhood. All of these had typical local findings and there was positive proof of bacterial growth. The incidence and occurrence of symptoms and principal signs is discussed. The high incidence of wrong diagnoses is remarkable. 4 out of 44 patients died before reaching a hospital or due to hypoxia. A concept is presented covering preclinical diagnostics and therapy, appropriate care during transport in the first-aid ambulance, and clinical treatment in the hospital.