[Lemierre's syndrome]

Abstract

Lemierre's syndrome (LS) is an uncommon but potentially life-threatening complication of an anaerobic oropharyngeal infection, affecting young adults and adolescents. The disease is characterised by a septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein and "metastatic" infections, which can be followed by fulminant sepsis and rapid death. More recently, it has been reported a recrudescence of this condition, which could be attributable to alterations in antibiotic usage patterns. The authors report the case of a LS secondary to a bout of intense cough, a cause not yet described in the literature, highlighting the importance of a quick diagnosis and the institution of an appropriate therapy.