Review of epiglottitis in the post Haemophilus influenzae type-b vaccine era

Abstract

Background: This study reviewed the demographics, presentation, management, complications and outcomes of acute epiglottitis post Haemophilus influenzae type-b vaccine introduction in Australia. Methods: Retrospective review of acute epiglottitis at four Victorian tertiary centres from 2011 to 2016 was conducted. Patient characteristics, presentation, investigations, management, complications and outcomes were recorded. Subgroup analysis aiming to identify risk factors for patients requiring acute airway management was performed. Results: Eighty-seven adult and six paediatric cases were identified. The most frequent clinical findings in adults were sore throat (88.5%), dysphagia (71.3%), ody..