Epiglottitis and related complications in adults. Case reports and review of the literature.

Epiglottis and related complications in adults. Case reports and review of the literature. Since the introduction of Haemophilus inlfuenza type b (Hib) vaccinations in child immunisation programs, a significant decline in the incidence of epiglottis has been observed among children. However, recent studies show an increase in the incidence of adult epiglottis without any identifiable predominant causative pathogen. Adult disease is known to have a slightly more protracted course. Vigilance is nevertheless indicated due to the risk of rapidly evolving airway obstruction. In this paper, we discuss three recent cases of adult epiglottis in a tertiary care unis, and review of the current literature. In two of these cases abscess formation was already present at the initial evaluation. In spite of very close monitoring, with securing of the airway, administration of intravenous antibiotics and drainage of the abscess, the eldest patient died. The other patients recovered completely.

Trefwoorden:Haemophilus influenza, vaccination, Fusobacterium necrophorum, adult, epiglottis, abscess, mediastinitis