Increasing prevalence of epiglottitis in the adult.

Epiglottitis in the adult is probably more prevalent than is generally recognized. The condition is potentially lethal unless diagnosed early. Any adult patient with acute painful dysphagia should receive indirect laryngoscopy to rule out epiglottitis, particularly when there are few signs to support the initial presentation of a sore throat. An adequate, timely airway should be secured. This should be done by tracheotomy, in our opinion. The diagnosis can be made on clinical presentation and no time should be wasted in instituting proper treatment.