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Lemierre syndrome complicating a subcutaneous neck abscess
Kalpana Raghunathan1, Nagapradeep Nagajothi
1Department of Internal Medicine, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Sciences, North Chicago, IL, USA. drrkalpana2000@yahoo.com
Southern Medical Journal
|March 24, 2006
Summary
Lemierre syndrome, a septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein, can arise from neck abscesses. Early consideration is vital for diagnosing septic emboli and sepsis in patients with neck pain.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Lemierre syndrome, characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein, is often preceded by oropharyngeal infections.
- Septic emboli and sepsis are serious conditions requiring prompt diagnosis and management.
- Subcutaneous neck abscesses can present with localized tenderness, particularly along the sternomastoid muscle.
Observation:
- This case highlights Lemierre syndrome developing secondary to a subcutaneous neck abscess.
- The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of a complicated neck infection.
Findings:
- Lemierre syndrome can complicate seemingly localized infections like subcutaneous neck abscesses.
- Tenderness along the sternomastoid muscle is a key clinical sign potentially indicating internal jugular vein involvement.
Implications:
- Clinicians should include Lemierre syndrome in the differential diagnosis for patients with sepsis and unexplained septic emboli, especially with concurrent neck abscesses.
- Recognizing the association between neck abscesses and Lemierre syndrome can lead to earlier diagnosis and intervention.
- Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in Lemierre syndrome.
