Lemierre’s Syndrome - Pathophysiology Lemierre’s is an infectious thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein. - It starts out as a common oropharyngeal infection, such as pharyngitis, tonsillitis, peritonsillar abscess, or dental infection. - But then if it goes untreated, it can spread to the parapharyngeal space (ie become a deep space neck infection), and get into the carotid sheath. - Once it penetrates the carotid sheath, it is only a matter of time before the patient becomes bacteremic and a clot forms in the IJ. From there, septic emboli can fly throughout the body, landing in the liver, lungs, endocardium, and joints. #Lemierres #Syndrome #Pathophysiology #Diagnosis
