EPIGLOTTITIS Meaning and
Definition
-
Epiglottitis is a medical condition characterized by the inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis - a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue, just above the windpipe. It protects the airway during swallowing by covering the opening to the voice box.
This condition primarily affects children between the ages of 2 and 8, but it can also occur in adults. It is considered a medical emergency due to the potential for severe airway obstruction.
Common symptoms of epiglottitis include a sudden and rapidly worsening sore throat, high fever, difficulty swallowing, and a muffled or hoarse voice. The affected person may also exhibit signs of respiratory distress, such as rapid breathing, stridor (a high-pitched, harsh sound during breathing), and leaning forward with outstretched neck and chin lifted to relieve breathing difficulties.
Epiglottitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly due to the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. With the widespread use of the Hib vaccine, the incidence of epiglottitis has significantly decreased. However, other bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Staphylococcus aureus, can also cause the condition.
Prompt medical attention is vital for the diagnosis and treatment of epiglottitis. Treatment usually involves hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen or intubation to ensure a clear airway. If left untreated, epiglottitis can lead to life-threatening complications, including respiratory failure and sepsis.
-
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EPIGLOTTITIS
- wpiglottitis
- spiglottitis
- dpiglottitis
- rpiglottitis
- 4piglottitis
- 3piglottitis
- eoiglottitis
- eliglottitis
- e-iglottitis
- e0iglottitis
- epuglottitis
- epjglottitis
- epkglottitis
- epoglottitis
- ep9glottitis
- ep8glottitis
- epiflottitis
- epivlottitis
- epiblottitis
Etymology of EPIGLOTTITIS
The word "epiglottitis" comes from combining two Greek roots.
1. "Epi-" is a prefix in Greek meaning "on", "upon", or "above".
2. "Glottis" is derived from the Greek word "glōttis" (which means "mouth of the windpipe").
Therefore, "epiglottitis" literally means "inflammation of the epiglottis".
Similar spelling words for EPIGLOTTITIS
- epiglottis,
- aryteno-epiglottideus,
- Thyreo-Epiglottideus,
- Arytaeno-epiglottideus,
- thyro-epiglottideus,
- epiglottides.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
