Clinical Practice and Cases in Emergency Medicine

Introduction: Acute epiglottis is a rapidly progressive, potentially life-threatening infection causing inflammation of the epiglottis and adjacent supraglottic structures.1-2 Since the introduction of the Haemophilus influenzae vaccine, the incidence of pediatric cases has decreased dramatically while adult instances have increased.1-4 Likewise, the etiology has changed considerably with the increasing prevalence of other causative bacterial and viral pathogens.1-4 

Case Report: We present a novel case of acute epiglottis secondary to infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. This case report highlights the changing landscape of epiglottitis and the importance of airway assessment.

Conclusion: Present-day epiglottitis differs greatly from our traditional understanding. Numerous etiologies beyond Haemophilus influenzae now afflict adults predominately. As a clinically significant, novel complication of coronavirus disease 2019, acute epiglottitis is a life-threatening airway emergency. Emergency physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion, especially given the evolving clinical landscape. Early airway assessment with nasopharyngolaryngoscopic is critical.