# Lemierre's Syndrome: A Case Report

## TL;DR

A 21-year-old woman with a severe throat infection developed Lemierre's syndrome, a rare condition requiring prompt diagnosis and targeted antibiotics to prevent life-threatening complications.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the diagnostic challenges and treatment of Lemierre's syndrome, emphasizing the importance of early recognition.

## Key findings

- Lemierre's syndrome was diagnosed based on pharyngeal abscess, jugular vein thrombophlebitis, and septic emboli.
- Treatment with ampicillin-sulbactam led to full recovery after a month-long course.
- Early recognition and targeted antibiotic therapy are crucial to prevent severe complications.

## Abstract

A 21-year-old woman presented with a sore throat and systemic symptoms, including fever, diarrhea, and chest pain, progressing to sepsis. Imaging revealed a pharyngeal abscess, thrombophlebitis of the left internal jugular vein, and septic emboli. Blood cultures confirmed Fusobacterium necrophorum, and the patient was diagnosed with Lemierre's syndrome. Empirical antibiotics were adjusted to ampicillin-sulbactam based on culture results, leading to a full recovery after a month-long treatment course. This case highlights the diagnostic challenges of Lemierre's syndrome, its severe complications, and the importance of early recognition and targeted antibiotic therapy. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of Lemierre's syndrome are essential to prevent life-threatening complications, underscoring the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion in patients presenting with systemic symptoms following pharyngitis.