Abstract
Background
After deployment of the Haemophilus influenzae vaccination, the range of pathogens causing acute epiglottitis has changed, as has
the epidemiology from a primarily pediatric syndrome towards more frequent adult onset.
Objectives
We present a case of acute-onset meningococcal epiglottitis in an adult patient, to
our knowledge one of a few reported cases in the medical literature. We review the
historic changes and outcomes of similar episodes.
Case Report
A 37-year-old diabetic man presented to our Emergency Department in acute respiratory
distress. Examination revealed epiglottitis; his airway subsequently closed rapidly
and was secured by surgical cricothyroidotomy; blood cultures showed the primary pathogen
to be Neisseria meningitidis type C.
Conclusion
Neisseria meningitidis has been found to be an emerging cause of acute epiglottitis in adult patients over
the last decade, possibly having worsened outcomes compared to other etiologies.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: July 23, 2010
Accepted:
May 17,
2010
Received in revised form:
February 16,
2010
Received:
December 2,
2009
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
