ABSTRACT
Sore throat is a common complaint, generally thought to be viral in origin, for which there may be a reluctance to prescribe antibiotics. This, combined with the emergence of antibiotic resistance, may explain the recent rise in the number of reports of Lemierre's syndrome (LS). LS characterises a postanginal septicaemia that is associated with significant morbidity and mortality if not recognised and treated early. This article describes the management of a 17-year-old boy diagnosed with LS to illustrate its classical presentation, common pitfalls in diagnosis and optimal management.
Subject(s)
Lemierre Syndrome/diagnosis , Adolescent , Child , Child, Preschool , Diagnosis, Differential , Early Diagnosis , Humans , Lemierre Syndrome/drug therapy , Lemierre Syndrome/epidemiology , Male , Nurse's Role , United Kingdom/epidemiologyABSTRACT
Fusobacterium necrophorum is an anaerobic gram-negative bacterium that can present as a painful sore throat. Although uncommon, clinicians need to be aware of this condition as this can present a diagnostic challenge, with the initial symptoms being non-specific followed by a fulminant course. We present the case of a previously healthy girl who presented with a sore throat but later developed a full-fledged picture of Lemierre's disease. She developed bilateral pleural effusion and internal jugular venous thrombosis and needed intensive care management, a prolonged course of intravenous antibiotics and anticoagulation therapy.
