Lemierre’s Syndrome: A Rare but Resurging Disease

TL;DR

Lemierre’s syndrome is a rare, life-threatening disease that can occur after throat infections and requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Contribution

This paper presents a case emphasizing the need for early recognition and multidisciplinary care in treating Lemierre’s syndrome in young adults.

Findings

A 22-year-old male with sore throat and sepsis was diagnosed with Lemierre’s syndrome caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.

The patient recovered after treatment with intravenous antibiotics, vasopressors, and anticoagulation.

Early diagnosis and prolonged anaerobic antibiotic therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes in Lemierre’s syndrome.

Abstract

Lemierre’s syndrome is a rare but life-threatening condition characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein (IJV) secondary to oropharyngeal infection, most commonly caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum. We report the case of a healthy 22-year-old male patient who presented with a sore throat, right-sided neck swelling, and sepsis. Blood cultures revealed F. necrophorum. Imaging confirmed IJV thrombosis and multiple cavitating pulmonary nodules consistent with septic emboli. The patient was managed with intravenous ceftriaxone and metronidazole, vasopressor support, and temporary anticoagulation. He made a recovery and was discharged home to complete an extended course of antibiotics. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of Lemierre’s syndrome in young adults presenting with oropharyngeal infection and systemic features of sepsis. Prompt diagnosis, prolonged anaerobic antibiotic therapy, and multidisciplinary input are vital to favorable outcomes.

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