Lemierre's Syndrome: A Comeback Story

Cureus. 2022 Jun 11;14(6):e25843. doi: 10.7759/cureus.25843. eCollection 2022 Jun.

Abstract

Lemierre's syndrome is a very rare and life-threatening complication of bacterial pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Often referred to as a 'forgotten disease', Lemierre's syndrome has seen a rise in cases over the years secondary to increased antibiotic resistance. With the potential for multiple organ failure secondary to widespread septic emboli, Lemierre's syndrome can no longer be forgotten. Prompt initiation of treatment is needed for better patient outcomes. We describe an unusual case of a young female without any significant past medical history who presented with left-sided pleuritic chest pain several days after experiencing a sore throat.

Keywords: fusobacterium necrophorum; infectious disease medicine; lemierre's syndrome; septic emboli; septic thrombophlebitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports