

Acute Epiglottitis
- This is a medical emergency - urgent specialist referral is required (Otolaryngology, Intensive Care).
Pathogens
- Common: H. influenzae B, viruses, S. pneumoniae, S. aureus, Streptococcus A
Drug Treatment
- Duration: At least 7 days.
Empiric
If meningitis is suspected use ceftriaxone and see Meningitis guidelines.
If there is any suspicion of involvement of other structures, follow the deep neck space infections guideline.
Mild penicillin allergy
- fe = 0.5, consider adjusting dose if CrCl reduced.
Severe penicillin allergy
AND
- fe = 0.9, adjust dose if CrCl reduced.
- Must be given diluted (1 g in at least 200 mL) and slowly (≤ 1000 mg/hour) to minimise infusion reactions.
Prophylaxis of H. influenzae B (notifiable) - contact Public Health
Topic Code: 99223