Lemierre’s disease

Lemierre’s disease A rare, potentially lethal complication of tonsillitis caused by anaerobic (not requiring oxygen) bacteria including Fusobacteria. The disease usually develops after a bacterial infection has created an abscess near the tonsils. Deep in the abscess, the anaerobic bacteria can flourish. The bacteria penetrate from the abscess into the neighboring jugular vein in the neck to cause an infected blood clot to form and are seeded by the bloodstream throughout the body. The keys to survival are prompt recognition of the disease, immediate use of appropriate antibiotics and drainage of abscesses. Also known as postanginal sepsis.