Epiglottitis is characterized by which description?

• A. Severe inflammatory obstruction of the upper airway caused by Haemophilus influenzae; a medical emergency
• B. Mild inflammation of the lower airway with stable airway
• C. Chronic inflammation of the epiglottis without airway compromise
• D. Allergic reaction limited to the skin

Answer: (A)

Epiglottitis is an acute swelling of the epiglottis that leads to severe upper airway obstruction, making it a medical emergency. The description that matches this best is a severe inflammatory obstruction of the upper airway caused by Haemophilus influenzae, because the infection causes rapid swelling that can block breathing and requires urgent airway management and antibiotics. Clinically, you’d expect sudden fever, severe throat pain, drooling, trouble swallowing, a muffled (hot potato) voice, and stridor, with the child often sitting forward or in a tripod position. Avoid forcing a mouth exam, since that can trigger laryngospasm, and be ready to secure the airway in a controlled setting. The other options describe milder or different processes (lower airway involvement, chronic inflammation without airway compromise, or a skin-limited allergic reaction) and do not fit the acute, life-threatening airway obstruction seen with epiglottitis.