Most common cause of acute epiglottitis is

It is an acute inflammatory condition confined to supraglottic structures i.e, epiglottis, aryepiglottic folds and arytenoids. There is marked oedema of these structures which may obstruct the airway. Aetiology It is a serious condition and affects children of 2-7 years of age but can also affect adults. Haemophilus influenzae B is the most common organism responsible for this condition in children. (Ref: Textbook of diseases of ENT, PL Dhingra, 7th edition, pg no. 327)