Lemierre's syndrome - an unusual complication of otitis externa in a young, healthy female.

BACKGROUND: Lemierre's syndrome, which affects previously healthy, young adults, is a rare complication secondary to infections in the head and neck that result in septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein.

METHOD: This paper reports a case of a young, healthy female with malignant otitis externa, which resulted in the development of Lemierre's syndrome. A review of the relevant literature was also carried out. This involved a search of the Medline database using multiple search terms including 'Lemierre', 'septic thrombophlebitis', 'otitis externa', 'internal jugular vein thrombosis' and 'management'.

RESULTS: The patient presented with fever, left-sided otalgia, otorrhoea, neck swelling and pain. She was subsequently diagnosed with Lemierre's syndrome and managed accordingly.

CONCLUSION: Lemierre's syndrome is a potentially fatal complication associated with significant morbidity. A high index of suspicion is required for prompt recognition and the early institution of treatment.