Supraglottitis secondary to Haemophilus influenzae serotype f infection: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Introduction: Haemophilus influenzae is an important human pathogen capable of causing serious invasive disease. The H. influenzae serotype b (Hib) conjugate vaccine successfully reduced the incidence of invasive Hib disease globally, revealing the significance of other H. influenzae serotypes. The emergence of H. influenzae type f (Hif) invasive disease has been reported worldwide. Case report: We identified a case of supraglottitis secondary to Hif in a 57-year-old female from northwestern Ontario without significant predisposing conditions. We describe the clinical presentation, disease progression, and outcome. The case is discussed in the context of current epidemiology of invasive Hif disease. Conclusion: This report emphasizes the severity of Hif invasive disease and the need for continued surveillance at the international level. We call for the development of health promotion strategies and the consideration of a vaccine against this organism.