Faculty mentor/PI email address
jim010@aol.com
Is your research Teaching and Learning based?
1
Keywords
Lemierre syndrome, oropharyngeal infections, deep neck space infections, internal jugular vein thrombosis, systemic complications of Lemierre syndrome
Date of Presentation
5-6-2026 12:00 AM
Poster Abstract
Lemierre syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein following an oropharyngeal infection. It is most commonly associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum, and typically begins with pharyngitis or deep neck space infections, which can extend into adjacent vascular structures. Retropharyngeal abscesses are among the deep neck infections that may predispose patients to this complication due to their proximity to the internal jugular vein and surrounding fascial planes.
Although Lemierre syndrome classically occurs in otherwise healthy adolescents and young adults, it can also develop in immunocompromised individuals or patients with complex medical conditions. Early symptoms may resemble benign upper respiratory infections, making diagnosis challenging. Prompt recognition through imaging and early initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy are essential to prevent serious complications, including septic emboli and systemic infection
Disciplines
Bacterial Infections and Mycoses | Medicine and Health Sciences
Included in
A Pain in the Neck: Lemierre Syndrome Presenting with Retropharyngeal Abscess
Lemierre syndrome is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein following an oropharyngeal infection. It is most commonly associated with Fusobacterium necrophorum, and typically begins with pharyngitis or deep neck space infections, which can extend into adjacent vascular structures. Retropharyngeal abscesses are among the deep neck infections that may predispose patients to this complication due to their proximity to the internal jugular vein and surrounding fascial planes.
Although Lemierre syndrome classically occurs in otherwise healthy adolescents and young adults, it can also develop in immunocompromised individuals or patients with complex medical conditions. Early symptoms may resemble benign upper respiratory infections, making diagnosis challenging. Prompt recognition through imaging and early initiation of appropriate antimicrobial therapy are essential to prevent serious complications, including septic emboli and systemic infection