Vasc Spec Int.  2024 Jun;40(2):22. 10.5758/vsi.240025.

A Rare and Dangerous Combination of COVID-19, Lemierre Syndrome, and Carotid Pseudoaneurysm: A Case Report

• Christoforou P
• Constantinou C
• Kounnos C
• Kapoulas K
• Salloumis M
• Pantelas G
• Hadjihannas L

• KMID: 2557690
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5758/vsi.240025

Abstract

Lemierre syndrome is a rare complication of oropharyngeal infection that causes septic thrombophlebitis in the internal jugular vein. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, this condition has been dangerously overlooked and poses an even greater threat when complicated by vascular pathologies. A case is presented where the patient required emergency endovascular exclusion of a right internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm due to Lemierre syndrome. The treatment included stent graft placement and drainage of a neck abscess, along with appropriate antibiotic treatment during hospitalization. Recognizing this diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The complexity of the disease necessitates extensive multidisciplinary collaboration for effective treatment.

Keyword

Lemierre syndrome; Thrombophlebitis; COVID-19; Staphylococcus aureus; Internal carotid artery pseudoaneurysm