Foreign body in the vallecula presenting as acute epiglottitis with unilateral supraglottitis.

Abstract

Life threatening inflammatory swelling of the epiglottic and supraglottic regions secondary to a foreign body in the vallecula is an unusual occurrence. Upper airway obstruction is potentially a life threatening sequela. We present a unique case of acute epiglottitis with unilateral supraglottitis secondary to foreign body in the vallecula, which gradually improved after emergency endotracheal intubation for respiratory arrest, followed by intensive conservative management with intravenous antibiotics, cortisone and intravenous fluids. This case emphasizes that a foreign body in the vallecula presenting with severe dysphagia should be taken seriously as it may lead to life threatening complications.

• Authors: Latifi Asrar, Nureni Oyetunji, Sayed S Raza, Imranulhaque Zeyaulhaque
• Journal: Saudi medical journal (Saudi Med J) Vol. 26 Issue 9 Pg. 1449-52 (Sep 2005) ISSN: 0379-5284 [Print] Saudi Arabia
• PMID: 16155668 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article)

Topics

• Acute Disease
• Adult
• Biopsy, Needle
• Deglutition Disorders (diagnosis, etiology)
• Diagnosis, Differential
• Edema (diagnosis)
• Epiglottis
• Epiglottitis (diagnosis)
• Foreign Bodies (diagnosis, surgery)
• Humans
• Immunohistochemistry
• Laryngoscopy
• Male
• Risk Assessment
• Treatment Outcome