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Published on: November 6, 2019
From a sore throat to the intensive care unit: the Lemierre syndrome
Maximilian Hochmair1, Arschang Valipour, Elisabeth Oschatz
1Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Otto-Wagner Hospital, Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
Lemierre syndrome is characterized by an acute oropharyngeal infection, suppurative thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and metastatic infections. The infection is usually caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum. We report on a 19-year-old male patient who was admitted with a five-day history of fever, sore throat and progressive dyspnea. Computed tomography of the neck and chest revealed a parapharyngeal abscess, jugular vein thrombosis, descending necrotizing mediastinitis and multiple areas of bilateral consolidation and cavitations within the lungs. Fusobacterium necrophorum was identified in the blood culture. Early combined abscess drainage with neck and chest incisions, together with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotic treatment and medical management in an intensive care unit resulted in a good clinical outcome.
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Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
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Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
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