[Septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein due to Fusobacterium necrophorum (Lemierre's syndrome): case report and review of literature].

Lemierre's syndrome is an uncommon clinical entity. It is characterized by oropharyngeal infection followed by septic thrombophlebitis of the jugular vein with embolization to the lungs and other organs. It is usually due to Fusobacterium necrophorum. Although Lemierre's syndrome is rare, it is potentially fatal. It is important for clinicians to recognize and treat it appropriately. With prompt recognition, abscess drainage with possible ligation of the internal jugular vein and appropriate antibiotic coverage complete recovery can be achieved in most patients.