Lemierre's syndrome secondary to Fusobacterium necrophorum infection, a rare cause of hepatic abscess

An 18 year old male was admitted to the Accident & Emergency department with complaints of abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. He was clinically jaundiced and further CT scan suggested liver abscess. Later on blood cultures showed gram-negative bacilli and a further liver aspirate culture confirmed the presence of the rare Fusobacterium necrophorum. A diagnosis of hepatic abscess secondary to Lemierre's syndrome was made and patient was treated with appropriate antibiotics. Lemierre's syndrome, although a rare condition, may be associated with serious life. threatening complications. Early recognition and treatment is essential in successfully treating this rare condition. A review of Lemierre's syndrome is presented. We recommend clinicians to be aware of this condition (Lemierre's Syndrome) especially when dealing with young patients with sore throat and jaundice. It is important for primary care physicians to be aware of this condition as they are discouraged from prescribing antibiotics for young patients with sore throat. Although it is a rare condition, it is associated with severe life threatening complication like liver abscesses. (Acta gastroenterol. belg,, 2009, 72 444-446).