Adult supraglottitis

Hospital records from 1974 through 1983 contained the cases of 20 patients over 18 years old admitted with supraglottitis (epiglottitis). Most patients presented with pharyngitis and odynophagia, and were diagnosed by laryngoscopy and neck radiographs. Four patients required tracheostomies, and one was nasotracheally intubated because of impending airway obstruction. Visualization of the hypopharynx was often necessary for diagnosis and in accordance with previously reported cases, did not precipitate airway obstruction. Adults without respiratory distress can be treated in the intensive care unit with inhaled mist, antibiotics, and corticosteroids, and such patients usually recover in a few days. Tracheostomy is being supplanted by nasotracheal intubation as the preferred means of securing an endangered airway.