epiglottitis

Overview Acute epiglottitis refers to inflammation of the epiglottis and surrounding supraglottic mucosa. It can be a life-threatening condition due to airway obstruction. Thankfully, acute epiglottitis is now rare in children due to the introduction of the Haemophilus influenzae type B (Hib) vaccination as part of the routine immunisation programme. In adults, the incidence is estimated at 1-4 per 100,000 people. In children, the median age at presentation has increased to 6-12 years (traditionally affected children 2-5 years old). Children who have not been vaccinated are at particular risk.     Basic anatomy The epiglottis is a thin layer of