MediAI

Epiglottitis: When a Simple Sore Throat Becomes a Medical Emergency A 60-year-old man arrived at the emergency department with a severe sore throat, hoarseness, and fever that had progressively worsened over two days. At first glance, the clinical findings seemed surprisingly benign. No drooling. No obvious respiratory distress. No stridor. No alarming findings on oral examination. Yet a lateral neck radiograph revealed a critical clue. A swollen epiglottis projects like an enlarged thumb. The classic Thumb Sign . Within hours, clinicians confirmed acute epiglottitis and admitted the patient to intensive care because airway obstruction can occur suddenly and catastrophically. This real-world scenario highlights one of the most important lessons in emergency diagnosis: Patients with epiglottitis may appear stable until they suddenly are not. Understanding the imaging characteristics of epiglottitis is therefore essential for physicians, radiologists, emergency clinicians, and medical im...

  Abstract Acute Epiglottitis is a rapidly progressive, potentially fatal upper airway condition characterized by inflammation and edema of the epiglottis and surrounding supraglottic structures. Despite the widespread implementation of the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine, epiglottitis remains clinically significant—particularly in adults—requiring prompt recognition and airway management. This column presents a radiology-driven case analysis, integrates CT imaging interpretation, and delivers a comprehensive expert-level review including pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging features, differential diagnosis, treatment strategies, and prognosis.  Clinical Case Summary A 60-year-old male presented with: Severe sore throat (2 days) Hoarseness Fever Physical findings: No stridor, drooling, or respiratory distress Unremarkable oropharyngeal exam Radiologic findings: Lateral neck X-ray: “Thumb sign.” Contrast-enhanced CT: Enlarged, edematous epig...