Thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein secondary to pharyngitis.

A case of septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein after pharyngitis is reported. Because of the common use and effectiveness of antibiotics against throat infections, this complication is now rarely seen. This condition has characteristic signs and symptoms, and a diagnosis can be obtained when the physician is aware of these characteristics. Radionuclide scan and Doppler effect flow studies of the internal jugular vein are useful diagnostic adjuncts. If recognized early and treated promptly with antibiotics, resolution is the rule. The literature has been reviewed.