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Updated: Jan 3, 2026
11:12
Immunometabolic Circuits in Infection for Advancing Host Directed Therapies
Published on: September 13, 2024
791
Lemierre's syndrome: A re-emerging infection
Takaaki Kobayashi1, Loreen Herwaldt1
1Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, United States.
Idcases
|November 27, 2019
Summary
Lemierre's syndrome (LS), a serious complication of head and neck infections, is increasing in incidence. Early recognition of LS, characterized by sore throat and lung septic emboli, is crucial for prompt treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Vascular Surgery
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Lemierre's syndrome (LS), or suppurative thrombophlebitis of the jugular vein, typically follows head and neck infections.
- Historically, LS incidence declined with penicillin use for bacterial pharyngitis.
- Current trends indicate a resurgence in LS cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the increasing incidence of Lemierre's syndrome.
- To emphasize the diagnostic challenges posed by LS's varied presentations.
- To underscore the importance of considering LS in patients with specific symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical and current epidemiological data on Lemierre's syndrome.
- Analysis of clinical manifestations and diagnostic criteria for LS.
- Correlation of LS incidence with antimicrobial usage patterns.
Main Results:
- Lemierre's syndrome was more prevalent before the widespread use of antibiotics.
- A decrease in LS cases was observed following the introduction of penicillin.
- An upward trend in Lemierre's syndrome incidence is currently noted.
Conclusions:
- Despite decreased historical incidence, Lemierre's syndrome is re-emerging.
- The diverse clinical picture of LS can impede timely diagnosis.
- A history of sore throat coupled with evidence of septic emboli in the lungs warrants strong consideration for Lemierre's syndrome.
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