There is no well-being without oral health: a case report of Lemierre’s syndrome due to neglected odontogenic infection

Abstract

Lemierre’s syndrome is marked by presence of septic thrombophlebitis in the internal jugular vein. This case report describes a 57-year-old woman who presented with a progressively swelling neck with onset 1 day prior to admission. She had a history of untreated dental infection. Physical examination revealed slightly increased blood pressure, at 140/80 mmHg, and a painful, erythematous, warm swelling in the mid area of the neck. Ultrasound of the neck revealed occlusive intraluminal thrombus in the right internal jugular vein, a computed tomography (CT) scan with contrast showed that there was a blockage in the right jugular vein. The mainstay treatment for Lemierre’s syndrome is antibiotics, while administration of anticoagulants remains controversial. The patient was treated conservatively, with administration of antibiotics and anticoagulant. Several days later the patient’s condition had improved significantly, with less pain and reduced swelling.