Acute pharyngitis, an unusual complication of intravenous hyperalimentation

While the numerous complications of intravenous hyperalimentation (IVH) are well recognized, we encountered a unique one. A 60-year-old man developed a sore throat, neck pain and fever seven days after catheterization of the subclavian vein to provide post-operative nutrition. Marked swelling was visible at the right posterior wall of this oropharynx and hypopharynx. X-ray of the neck revealed that the tip of the catheter was positioned in the internal jugular vein, not the subclavian vein as intended. The acute pharyngitis, diagnosed as due to phlebitis of the internal jugular vein due to the malpositioned catheter, subsided within two days of catheter removal.