Lemierre's syndrome. Sepsis complicating an anaerobic oropharyngeal infection

Abstract

Previously healthy people without interfering conditions are rarely affected by anaerobic infections. We report a young patient with extended septic emboli in the lungs, after an episode of sore throat, due to anaerobic bacteremia with Fusobacterium necrophorum. The first description of oropharyngeal infection complicated by sepsis was given by Lemierre in 1936. Knowledge of Lemierre's syndrome should lead to early recognition and prompt action against this sporadic and possible fatal illness.