Which of the following is the aetiological agent most often associated with Epiglottitis in children

NEET PG Pediatrics
#1

Which of the following is the aetiological agent most often associated with Epiglottitis in children –

    1. Streptococcus pneumoniae
    1. Haemophilus influenzae type b
    1. Neisseria sp
    1. Moraxella catarrhalis

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EXP:

“In published case series, it is almost always caused by Haemophilus influenzae type B”. - CPDT

Epiglottitis

  • It is the inflammation of epiglottis with inflammatory edema of hyopharynx.
  • It is a true medical emergency.
  • H.influenzae is the most common causative organism.
  • Other organisms are → Pneumococci, Streptococcus pyogenes, N.meningitidis, Staphylococcus

Clinical manifestations

  • Onset is sudden
  • Symptoms are → fever, dysphagia, drooling, muffled voice, inspiratory retractions, cyanosis and soft stridor.
  • Patients often sit in sniffing dog position.
  • Respiratory arrest may occur.
    Imaging
  • “Cherry red” swollen epiglottis by laryngoscope.
  • Radiograph → “Thumbprint” sign.
    Treatment
  • Immediate endotracheal intubation.
  • IV antibiotics to cover H.influenzae.