[Lemierre syndrome revealed by torticollis]

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Infectious Diseases
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Lemierre syndrome is a severe thrombotic complication of oropharyngeal infections.
• It typically involves internal jugular vein thrombosis and metastatic spread.
• Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone, a potential source of head and neck infections.

Observation:

• A case of Lemierre-like syndrome secondary to mastoiditis in a healthy infant is presented.
• The infant presented with torticollis, a common symptom in pediatric neck pathology.
• This presentation mimics classical Lemierre syndrome but originates from a different primary site.

Findings:

• The infant experienced a favorable outcome with appropriate medical intervention.
• Early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic therapy were key to successful management.
• Mastoiditis can serve as an unusual but significant source for Lemierre-like syndrome.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering Lemierre-like syndrome in infants with torticollis and signs of infection.
• Emphasizes the need for early and aggressive antibiotic treatment for mastoiditis to prevent serious sequelae.
• Broadens the understanding of potential etiologies for Lemierre-like syndrome beyond oropharyngeal infections.