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Multiple Cranial Nerve Palsies due to Lemierre Syndrome Associated with Atypical Streptococcus pyogenes Infection
Chathuranka De Silva1, Toby Lindenbaum1
1Newcastle Eye Centre, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
Abstract:
Lemierre syndrome is an extremely rare but life-threatening condition, characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. There is usually a preceding oropharyngeal infection, and the culprit pathogen is usually Fusobacterium necrophorum. We present an unusual case of Lemierre syndrome caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. The patient initially presented to ophthalmology with multiple cranial nerve palsies and cavernous sinus thrombosis. He was successfully treated with antibiotics in a timely fashion. This is the first report to show this pathogen causing severe ophthalmic complications from Lemierre syndrome.
Insights
Lemierre syndrome, a rare infection of the jugular vein, can be caused by Streptococcus pyogenes. This case highlights severe ophthalmic complications and successful antibiotic treatment.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Lemierre syndrome is a rare but severe condition, typically involving septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein.
- It is usually preceded by an oropharyngeal infection, most commonly caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum.
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