Acute epiglottic abscess in adults: Still a challenge!

An Atypical Cause of an Epiglottic Abscess

An epiglottic abscess is a rare complication of acute epiglottitis and is life threatening. We describe a case report of a diabetic adult male, who presented with an epiglottic abscess. Culture results showed Aeromonas hydrophila, an organism rarely reported as a cause of acute epiglottitis. Early recognition can be lifesaving.

Anaesthetic management of acute airway obstruction

The acutely obstructed airway is a medical emergency that can potentially result in serious morbidity and mortality. Apart from the latest advancements in anaesthetic techniques, equipment and drugs, publications relevant to our topic, including the United Kingdom's 4th National Audit Project on major airway complications in 2011 and the updated American Society of Anesthesiologists' difficult airway algorithm of 2013, have recently been published. The former contained many reports of adverse events associated with the management of acute airway obstruction. By analysing the data and concepts from these two publications, this review article provides an update on management techniques for the acutely obstructed airway. We discuss the principles and factors relevant to the decision-making process in formulating a logical management plan.