[Lemierre's syndrome (post-anginal sepsis): a forgotten infection]

Abstract

Septic thrombophlebitis of the jugular vein (Lemierre's syndrome) is a severe complication of oropharyngeal infections. The extension of the infection to the cardiovascular system favors its dissemination to the lung and, eventually, to other points in the organism. We report two cases of Lemierre's syndrome seen in a 10-year period. The diagnostic and therapeutic aspects are particularly emphasized so as to stimulate the knowledge of this uncommon condition.