Lemierre's syndrome: post-anginal septicemia

Abstract

Lemierre's syndrome is an obscure entity with very significant related morbidity. We describe a typical case and a never before reported complication. Increased awareness of this condition is necessary, since it is given little consideration even when patients present with the very characteristic clinical picture. US will depict internal jugular vein (IJV) thrombosis in most cases and should be the modality of choice for the initial evaluation of suspected thrombosis of the IJVs. Associated demonstration of cavitary pulmonary nodules establishes the diagnosis of Lemierre's syndrome. Early recognition and institution of adequate antimicrobial therapy are key points in the successful management of this syndrome.