Overview
Laryngitis involves inflammation of the larynx, often presenting with hoarseness, sore throat, and cough. Subglottic laryngitis, particularly in pediatric populations, has seen significant shifts in management strategies over recent decades 1.Diagnosis
Clinical presentation includes hoarseness, throat pain, and sometimes stridor.
Direct laryngoscopy may be necessary for definitive diagnosis, especially in subglottic involvement.
Imaging (e.g., laryngoscopy) can help identify structural causes or complications 13.Management
First-line treatments:
- Racemic epinephrine (for pediatric subglottic laryngitis) 1.
Adjunctive treatments:
- Avoidance of unnecessary antibiotics and antihistamines 1.
- Humidification use has declined significantly; consider alternatives based on clinical context 1.Special Populations
Pediatrics: Racemic epinephrine has become a standard first-line treatment for subglottic laryngitis 1.
Post-tonsillectomy: Careful and complete tonsillectomy to prevent post-operative subglottic stenosis (quinsy) is crucial 3.Key Recommendations
Use racemic epinephrine as a first-line treatment for pediatric subglottic laryngitis (Evidence: Strong 1).
Avoid routine use of antibiotics and antihistamines in the management of laryngitis (Evidence: Strong 1).
Ensure meticulous surgical technique during tonsillectomy to minimize risk of post-operative subglottic stenosis (Evidence: Moderate 3).References
1 Penezić A, Ivkić M, Ivkić B, Baudoin T. Subglottic laryngitis--Changes in therapy approach over the past 20 years. Auris, nasus, larynx 2015. link
2 Olofsson J. European Federation of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology Societies (EU.F.O.S.)--past, present and future. Otolaryngologia polska = The Polish otolaryngology 2009. link70087-3)
3 Randall CJ, Jefferis AF. Quinsy following tonsillectomy (five case reports). The Journal of laryngology and otology 1984. link