A fatal case of Pasteurella multocida epiglottitis.

INTRODUCTION

Pasteurella multocida, a Gram-negative bacillus, is rarely associated with acute respiratory infections.

AIM: To describe a case of fatal P. multocida epiglottitis.

RESULTS

A 52-year-old gentleman developed a sore throat and died suddenly within an hour of seeing his general practitioner. Post-mortem findings were consistent with death due to laryngeal obstruction associated with epiglottitis and laryngopharyngitis. A swab taken from the epiglottis for culture was positive for P. multocida.

CONCLUSION

Physicians should be aware of the potential for acute deterioration in adults with acute epiglottitis.