Rare and life-threatening complication after an attempted lower third molar extraction: Lemierre syndrome

Ann R Coll Surg Engl. 2019 Feb;101(2):e52-e54. doi: 10.1308/rcsann.2018.0190. Epub 2018 Oct 29.

Abstract

Lemierre's syndrome is also known as the forgotten disease, and is a rare but life-threatening complication that can arise after surgical extractions of infected mandibular third molars. Owing to its rarity, oral and maxillofacial surgeons might not immediately recognise or can underestimate the pathological signs, and consequently do not apply the appropriate therapy to treat the syndrome. Here, we report on the occurrence and management of a case of Lemierre's syndrome, where the complications affected the right sigmoid sinus. Since the condition appear to be underreported and not properly highlighted, eventual systematic review and meta-analysis of the occurrence of the Lemierre's syndrome are highly recommended.

Keywords: Internal jugular vein; Lemierre syndrome; Surgical complication; Third molar extraction; Thrombophlebitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lemierre Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Lemierre Syndrome / etiology
  • Molar, Third / surgery*
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnosis*
  • Tooth Extraction*