The evaluation of epiglottitis begins with a medical history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with epiglottitis may include:

• Severe difficulty breathing
• Noisy breathing:
• Particularly during inhalation
• Rapid breathing
• Retractions of chest muscles during inspiration
• Drooling
• Muffled voice
• Cyanosis

Testing is usually required to confirm the diagnosis of epiglottitis.

Tests that may be used to evaluate epiglottitis include:

• Direct visualization of the epiglottis in the operating room.
• This should be done as early as possible in all suspected cases of epiglottitis.
• Soft tissue x-rays of the neck can show enlargement of epiglottis
• Pulse oximetry
• Blood tests:
• Blood work is often not performed until the child is stabilized and the airway is controlled
• Blood cultures
• Complete blood count

For more information:

• Bacterial pharyngitis evaluation
• Croup evaluation
• Peritonsillar abscess evaluation
• Tonsillitis evaluation