This case shows the classic appearance of emphysematous epiglottitis in an adult with marked thickening of the supraglottic larynx including the epiglottis and aryepiglottic folds. The presence of gas is less common though suggests a more severe infection. In children, the infection classically occurs in unvaccinated children due to haemophilus influenzae type B. However, in adults, the infection is more variable with multiple possible pathogens including streptococcus, staph. aureus, and haemophilus influenzae.

In children, there is greater concern for airway compromise given the naturally smaller airways.