American family physician
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Acute epiglottitis in adults is a fulminant disease characterized by local cellulitis of supraglottic structures. Symptoms include sore throat, dysphagia, respiratory difficulty and muffled voice. ⋯ Diagnosis is facilitated by an upright, lateral neck x-ray and indirect laryngoscopy. The mainstays of treatment are airway maintenance, antibiotics, steroids, hydration, cool mist, oxygen and supportive care.