A SYSTEMIC REVIEW ON ACUTE EPIGLOTTITIS: CLINICAL FEATURES AND DIAGNOSIS.

Acute epiglottitis (AE) is an acute inflammatory life-threatening clinical condition which can
lead to obstruction of the airway. AE is a bacterial infection of the supraglottic structures.
Breathing difficulties are often thought of as a strong predictor of the intervention to the
airway. AE is considered an emergency due to the chance for airway narrowing. Clinical
presentations are alone insufficient for the diagnosis of AE. Fibreoptic
nasopharyngolaryngoscopic examination should be performed as soon as possible for
confirmation of diagnosis. As AE is a life-threatening infection, it warrants immediate
diagnosis and treatment. Antibiotics are the mainstay of the initial treatment along with
corticosteroids which act as potential adjuncts. This review article describes the
aetiopathology, epidemiology, clinical presentations, diagnosis and current treatment of AE.
A multidisciplinary approach and immediate therapeutic measures are imperative to ensure
the safety of the airway through basic and invasive procedures, in addition to strict
postprocedural follow-up. This approach is fundamental to optimize health outcomes among
these patients. Early diagnosis and prompt management of epiglottitis are critical to prevent
severe complications. Increased awareness and timely intervention significantly improve
patient outcomes.