Lemierre's Syndrome: A Case Report of Thrombophlebitis of the Internal Jugular Vein Induced by Laryngeal Cancer

Abstract

Lemierre's syndrome, a rare complication of oropharyngeal infections, is characterized by septic thrombophlebitis primarily affecting the internal jugular vein, which can lead to septicemia, thrombotic obstruction, and potential dissemination to distant sites. We present the case of a 54-year-old male with a history of chronic smoking and newly diagnosed laryngeal carcinoma, complicated by Lemierre's syndrome. Initial symptoms included odynophagia, dyspnea, and cervical swelling, with subsequent diagnosis confirming thrombosis of the internal jugular vein via ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Treatment included broad-spectrum antibiotics and anticoagulation, followed by oncological management for the carcinoma. This case underscores the diagnostic challenge posed by concurrent malignancy and highlights the critical role of early recognition and comprehensive treatment involving antibiotics, anticoagulation, and oncological therapy. Multidisciplinary collaboration is crucial for optimizing outcomes in complex cases like this, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical suspicion and prompt intervention involving proper imaging diagnosis, appropriate antibiotic coverage, and timely microbiological recognition for adjustment of antimicrobial therapy.