Adult Supraglottic Airway Inflammation: A Medical Emergency
This condition involves rapid inflammation and swelling of structures at the entrance of the airway, particularly the flap of tissue at the base of the tongue that helps prevent food from entering the lungs during swallowing. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can obstruct airflow, leading to severe breathing difficulties and, if untreated, death. Although historically more common in children, widespread vaccination against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) has shifted the burden of disease toward adults. Causes In adults, the condition is most often caused by bacterial infection. Common pathogens include Streptococcus pneumoniae , Staphylococcus aureus , and Haemophilus influenzae type b, though Hib now accounts for a smaller proportion of cases than in the past. Other bacteria such as Klebsiella pneumoniae , Pasteurella multocida , and Fusobacterium necrophorum may also be involved. Viral infections, including herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and Epstein–Barr ...