A life threatening bacterial infection of the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds. Epidemiology No seasonal predominance. Pathophysiology Pharynx often colonized with potentially pathogenic organisms.
Bacteria penetrate the mucosal barrier and invade the bloodstream.
Focal infection may occur at the epiglottis and surrounding structures causing inflammatory edema. Edema leads to reduction in the caliber of the airway, which leads to turbulent air flow on inspiration and stridor. Stridor and labored respirations. Aphonia, hoarseness, muffled voice Anxious appearance. Prefer sitting position, with jaw thrust forward.