Epiglottitis--an increasing problem for adults.

In a 2-year period, 9 adults were admitted to hospital with acute epiglottitis confirmed by direct laryngoscopy or lateral neck radiograph, or both. The mean age was 53 +/- 14 years, with acute epiglottitis occurring in 89% during the months of September to March. Intubation was required in 4 patients. The duration of symptoms was 7.8 +/- 2.4 hours for intubated patients versus 18.8 +/- 8.9 hours for those not intubated. For 6 patients an incorrect diagnosis was made on their first presentation. All 8 patients having laryngoscopy had typical findings, and none had respiratory obstruction precipitated by the procedure. In 5 patients blood cultures were positive, 4 for Hemophilus influenzae type b, and 1 for Streptococcus pneumoniae. In 2 patients the H influenzae was ampicillin-resistant. All patients recovered after receiving parenteral steroid therapy and appropriate antibiotics.