What imaging study is indicated for a stable patient suspected of having epiglottitis?

For a stable patient suspected of having epiglottitis, lateral neck radiographs are the most indicated imaging study. This imaging technique is particularly useful because it allows for visualization of the soft tissues in the neck and can help identify a swollen epiglottis, which is a hallmark of epiglottitis.

In a stable patient, conducting a lateral neck radiograph can provide crucial information while minimizing the risk of further complications that might arise from more invasive procedures. The presence of the "thumbprint sign," indicating epiglottic swelling, is a classic finding in these radiographs and can aid in making a timely diagnosis.

Other imaging modalities, such as a CT scan of the neck, may provide more detailed images but are typically reserved for more complicated cases or when there is uncertainty after the initial imaging. A chest X-ray is not relevant for diagnosing epiglottitis, as it focuses on the thoracic structures rather than the neck area. A swallow study is not appropriate in this scenario, as it assesses swallowing function rather than the state of the epiglottis or related structures. Therefore, the use of lateral neck radiographs aligns with standard diagnostic practices for suspected epiglottitis in a stable patient.