What is a potential complication of untreated epiglottitis?

The potential complication of untreated epiglottitis is blockage of the airway. Epiglottitis is characterized by inflammation of the epiglottis, which is the flap of tissue that covers the windpipe during swallowing. When this inflammation occurs, it can result in swelling that narrows or entirely closes the airway, making it difficult or impossible to breathe.

If left untreated, the swelling can progress rapidly, leading to critical respiratory distress and potential asphyxiation. This makes immediate medical intervention essential to secure the airway and provide necessary treatment.

While the other options may involve conditions relevant to upper respiratory infections or inflammatory processes, they do not arise directly from the life-threatening nature of epiglottitis. The hallmark complication of epiglottitis truly lies in the risk it poses to airflow, which highlights the necessity of prompt recognition and treatment.