Death from adult respiratory distress syndrome and multiorgan failure following acute upper airway obstruction.

In adults with acute epiglottitis, transient noncardiogenic pulmonary edema may follow relief of upper airway obstruction, but typically does not progress to more severe pulmonary derangements. We describe a patient with post-obstructive pulmonary edema whose course was complicated by ARDS, multiorgan failure, and death. Recognition of UAO and expedient treatment depends heavily on the judgment and skills of the clinician and the available resources of the institution. Physicians caring for patients with AE should be aware of the potential for delayed morbidity and mortality following upper airway obstruction, even after establishing an adequate artificial airway. This case provides additional justification for aggressive airway management and intensive care support of patients with AE in order to avoid serious complications.