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Lemierre syndrome: unusual cause and presentation.
Rony Aouad1, Antoine Melkane, Simon Rassi
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Hotel Dieu de France Hospital, Saint Joseph University, Beirut, Lebanon. aouadrony@hotmail.com
Pediatric Emergency Care
|May 11, 2010
Summary
Lemierre syndrome, a serious infection, can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus, not just Fusobacterium necrophorum. Early imaging and treatment are vital for this rare pediatric case with widespread emboli.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatric Medicine
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Lemierre syndrome is a severe condition following oropharyngeal infections, typically caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.
- It involves thrombophlebitis of head and neck veins with septic emboli dissemination.
Observation:
- An unusual case of Lemierre syndrome in a 4-year-old child is presented.
- The causative agent was identified as Staphylococcus aureus, not the typical pathogen.
- The patient experienced multivisceral emboli affecting the brain, orbits, lungs, and heart valves.
Findings:
- This case highlights Staphylococcus aureus as a rare but significant cause of Lemierre syndrome in children.
- The clinical presentation was atypical, underscoring diagnostic challenges.
- Imaging played a critical role in achieving early diagnosis.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are crucial for managing this life-threatening condition.
- Recognizing Staphylococcus aureus as a potential pathogen broadens the understanding of Lemierre syndrome etiology.
- This case emphasizes the importance of advanced imaging in pediatric infectious disease diagnosis.
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