Computed tomographic findings in Lemierre syndrome

Abstract

Lemierre syndrome, also known as postanginal septicemia, has long been taken as an uncommon condition with life-threatening potential. It, resulting from acute oropharyngeal infection, could lead to septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein (IJV). Substantial decrease of mortality and morbidity with the introduction of antibiotics has made this syndrome into a status that is frequently forgotten or overlooked when it appears. The purpose of this article is to refresh awareness on the side of physicians of this syndrome by means of modern image tools. As such, even this dire neck infection is rare after the advent of sophisticated antibiotics, its unique computed tomography findings can facilitate the correct image diagnosis and pertinent treatment.