Which statement is true regarding acute epiglottitis?

Which statement is true regarding acute epiglottitis?

• A. Streptococcus pyogenes is the most common cause in adults
• B. Most common cause Hib in children under 6; vaccination reduced incidence.
• C. Viral etiology is more common in adults
• D. Epiglottitis is not life-threatening

Answer: (B)

Acute epiglottitis is a rapid, potentially life-threatening infection that causes swelling of the epiglottis and can briskly obstruct the airway. In children under 6, Haemophilus influenzae type b was historically the most common cause, and widespread Hib vaccination has dramatically reduced its incidence in this age group. That makes the statement about Hib being the most common cause in young children and vaccination reducing that incidence true. In adults, the pathogens can vary and include Streptococcus species and Staphylococcus aureus, but viral etiologies are not the predominant cause. Regardless of age, epiglottitis is a medical emergency requiring prompt airway management and supportive care.

Acute epiglottitis is a rapid, potentially life-threatening infection that causes swelling of the epiglottis and can briskly obstruct the airway. In children under 6, Haemophilus influenzae type b was historically the most common cause, and widespread Hib vaccination has dramatically reduced its incidence in this age group. That makes the statement about Hib being the most common cause in young children and vaccination reducing that incidence true. In adults, the pathogens can vary and include Streptococcus species and Staphylococcus aureus, but viral etiologies are not the predominant cause. Regardless of age, epiglottitis is a medical emergency requiring prompt airway management and supportive care.