EPIGLOTTIC ABSCESS

Background. Epiglottitis is more commonly seen in children less than 6 years of age, although this entity has also been well described among adults. A coalescence of infection of the epiglottis, or epiglottic abscess, has been infrequently reported in series of epiglottitis. Risk factors for epiglottic abscess include adult age at onset, diabetes, and the presence of a foreign body. Methods. Case study. Results. We present a case of a woman with a 4-day history of febrile illness, odynophagia, and an altered voice. Clinical examination and computed tomography (CT) demonstrated an epiglottic abscess. The patient underwent direct laryngoscopy, intubation, drainage of abscess, and intravenous antibiotics. Conclusions. The diagnosis of epiglottic abscess should be considered in adult patients initially seen with odynophagia and dysphonia. Principles of treatment include airway management, antibiotics, and surgical drainage. (C) 1995 John Wiley and Sons, Inc.