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Published on: November 6, 2019
[Lemierre's syndrome following peritonsillar abscess]
Rasmus Ehrenfried Berthelsen1, Lars Hein
1Anæstesiologisk Enhed, Hillerød Hospital, Denmark. rasmuseb@dadlnet.dk
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|June 7, 2012
Summary
Lemierre's syndrome, a rare infection from Fusobacterium necrophorum, can cause widespread abscesses. Early ICU treatment including drainage and antibiotics led to a full recovery in a 16-year-old patient.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Lemierre's syndrome is a rare but severe condition often originating in the oropharynx.
- It involves Fusobacterium necrophorum, leading to internal jugular vein thrombophlebitis and septic emboli.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old male presented with a peritonsillar abscess.
- He subsequently developed disseminated abscesses in the lungs, liver, and spleen.
Findings:
- The patient required intensive care unit (ICU) admission.
- Treatment involved surgical drainage of abscesses, antibiotics, and anticoagulant therapy.
Implications:
- Prompt and aggressive management is crucial for favorable outcomes in Lemierre's syndrome.
- This case highlights the importance of recognizing and treating this potentially fatal condition effectively.
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