Acute Epiglottitis Overview

A serious medical condition where the epiglottis, a flap of tissue in the throat, swells and blocks airflow to the lungs.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is the primary culprit. Other possible causes include Streptococcus pneumoniae and fungal infections in individuals with weak immune systems.

The infection triggers an immune response in the epiglottis, causing inflammation and swelling. This swelling can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing difficulties.

Swelling of the epiglottis obstructs the glottis, the opening of the windpipe, leading to a high-pitched wheezing sound called stridor.

The swelling progresses rapidly, sometimes within a few hours, making prompt medical attention crucial to prevent complete airway blockage and life-threatening complications.

It spreads through respiratory droplets, such as saliva or mucus, released when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Vaccination against Hib significantly reduces the risk of developing Acute Epiglottitis. Unvaccinated children are more vulnerable.

A life-threatening condition that requires prompt medical attention. The swelling blocks airflow to the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties. It's most commonly caused by Hib bacteria.

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is the most common cause of acute epiglottitis, but other bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae and fungi can also cause it in people with weakened immune systems.

Acute epiglottitis is caused by inflammation of the epiglottis, which is a small flap of tissue that covers the windpipe, the passage for air. The swelling blocks airflow, leading to difficulty breathing, wheezing, and even respiratory failure.

The spread of acute epiglottitis from person to person is possible, but much less likely in adults due to previous exposure to the bacteria or vaccination.

Children aged 2-7 years are most susceptible to acute epiglottitis because their airways are smaller and more prone to obstruction.

Immunization against Hib has significantly reduced the occurrence of acute epiglottitis in children. Therefore, unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated children are at an increased risk.

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant drugs, are more susceptible to epiglottitis due to bacterial or fungal infections.

Close contact with individuals infected with Hib can increase the risk of transmission.

Acute epiglottitis is often caused by Hib, but other bacteria and fungi can also be responsible, especially in individuals with weaker immune systems.