Epiglottitis

Prevalent in children 1–7 y; sometimes called supraglottitis, it does occur in adults (decreasing incidence in children >3 y related to vaccines against Haemophilus influenzae type B, but still found, particularly if pt is not immunized).

Adult incidence remains constant with organisms group A Streptococcus pneumoniae , Staphylococcus aureus , and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Acute deterioration of airway patency resulting in complete obstruction worse in children

Difficulty in tracheal intubation due to severe edema of epiglottis and arytenoids

Airway compromise in children who appear toxic, with increasing distress, drooling, and hypoxemia. The acute risks of airway compromise (of concern in small children) appear to be less critical in adults, most likely because of larger airways.

Loss of airway control and aspiration.