Preliminary Diagnosis: Epiglottitis
I. What imaging technique is first-line for this diagnosis?
AP and lateral radiographic views of the soft tissues of the neck
II. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of this technique for diagnosis of epiglottitis.
Advantages
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Relatively inexpensive and fast imaging modality
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Highly portable and exposes patients to minimal ionizing radiation
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High sensitivity for diagnosis
Disadvantages
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Poor specificity for diagnosis
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Limited in detailing and evaluating the surrounding soft tissues, osseous structures, and vascular structures
III. What are the contraindications for the first-line imaging technique?
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No specific contraindications to plain radiography exist.
IV. What alternative imaging techniques are available?
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CT imaging
V. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of the alternative techniques for diagnosis of epiglottitis.
CT imaging
Advantages
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Highly sensitive and specific in diagnosing epiglottis
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Highly adept at characterizing any secondary complication.
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More adept than plain radiography in detailing the surrounding soft tissue structures, osseous structures, and vasculature
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May help direct any potential treatment and therapy
Disadvantages
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Exposure to ionizing radiation
VI. What are the contraindications for the alternative imaging techniques?
CT imaging
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May be contraindicated in pregnant patients
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