Epiglottitis is characterized by which of the following?

Epiglottitis is specifically marked by supraglottic narrowing combined with an enlarged epiglottis. This condition is primarily an inflammation of the epiglottis, which can obstruct the airway and lead to severe respiratory distress. The hallmark of epiglottitis is the swelling that occurs in the supraglottic region, which is the area above the vocal cords, causing the epiglottis to become enlarged.

When swelling occurs in this area, it can lead to difficulty breathing, stridor, and a characteristic "tripod position" that a patient might adopt to help with breathing. This is a critical clinical indicator in diagnosing epiglottitis.

Understanding this condition is essential as it reflects the importance of recognizing airway management needs in such cases. The other options, while potentially related to respiratory issues, do not specifically describe the distinctive pathology of epiglottitis.