Lemierre Syndrome of the Femoral Vein, Related to Fusobacterium necrophorum Abscess of Vastus Lateralis

BACKGROUND: Lemierre syndrome is an uncommon, potentially lethal disorder combining acute oropharyngeal infection caused by Fusobacterium necrophorum, with jugular vein suppurative thrombosis, complicated by anaerobic sepsis with secondary multiple metastatic abscesses. Optimal treatment outcome with reduced or absence of sequelae can be achieved with early diagnosis. CASE REPORT: We present a clinical case of Fusobacterium necrophorum abscess complicated with femoral vein thrombosis, called atypical localization of Lemierre syndrome. This uncommon disease was diagnosed on the basis of clinical, biological, and imaging tests, with a favorable outcome, after a well-orientated antibiotic and surgical course of therapy. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: Since its first description in 1936, Lemierre syndrome has been reported in locations other than its initial oropharyngeal site. Because optimal treatment outcome is dependent on early diagnosis, it is imperative for emergency physicians to be aware of this uncommon disease, because in many instances they are the patient's initial point of contact with medical care.