Two cases of aseptic internal jugular vein thrombophlebitis associated with hemodialysis catheter, presenting as sore throat: case report and literature review

Abstract

Background Non-cuffed hemodialysis (HD) catheters are often used for emergency or temporary vascular access. Its complications include thrombosis and catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI); however, thrombophlebitis can also occur. Thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein (IJV) may present with symptoms, such as fever, lateral neck pain, and swelling, regardless of the presence or absence of infection; however, symptoms may be minor and easily overlooked. Sore throat is a well-known symptom of Lemierre's syndrome, but has not been reported in cases of thrombophlebitis without infection. We report two cases of HD catheter-associated IJV thrombophlebitis in patients that were diagnosed with sore throat. Case presentation Case 1 included a 58-year-old woman with diabetic nephropathy on HD. She was admitted to our hospital due to the occlusion of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) for dialysis. A temporary HD catheter was placed in the right IJV until an arteriovenous graft (AVG) was fabricated. After admission, CRBSI was suspected because she developed fever; however, bacteremia was ruled out and a sore throat gradually developed. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) revealed thrombophlebitis of the right IJV. Anticoagulation therapy was initiated and she was discharged due to an improvement of symptoms. Case 2 included an 83-year-old man with end-stage renal disease due to hypertensive nephrosclerosis. He was admitted to our hospital because of AVF occlusion. A temporary HD catheter was inserted into the right IJV and an AVG was created. He had elevated C-reactive protein levels after catheter placement but was asymptomatic. When removing the catheter, he complained of throat discomfort. Ultrasonography of the neck revealed thrombotic obstruction of the right IJV, and contrast-enhanced CT revealed thrombophlebitis of the right IJV. Blood culture results were negative. He was discharged after anticoagulation therapy was started and symptoms improved. Conclusions The presence of sore throat leads to the diagnosis of IJV thrombophlebitis. Pharyngeal symptoms that develop after central venous catheter (CVC) placement should be differentiated from thrombophlebitis using a minimally invasive vascular ultrasound.