Septic thrombophlebitis of portal and splenic vein secondary to Fusobacterium nucleatum: A case report of an abdominal variant of lemierre syndrome

Abstract

Rationale:

Septic thrombophlebitis of the internal jugular vein also known as Lemierre syndrome occurs secondary to an oropharyngeal infection often leading to septic embolisms to distant sites. Anaerobic gram-negative bacillus, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Fusobacterium necrophorum are commonly isolated organisms. Fusobacterium species has also been reported to complicate an intra-abdominal infection leading to septic thrombophlebitis of portal vein also known as pylephlebitis or abdominal variant of lemierre syndrome.

Patient concerns:

The patient was a middle-aged female patient with chief complaints of abdominal discomfort, intermittent fever and vomiting for one month.

Diagnoses:

The final diagnosis was septic thrombophlebitis of portal and splenic vein secondary to Fusobacterium nucleatum.

Interventions:

Patient was managed with broad spectrum intravenous antibiotics with coverage against gram-negative bacilli, anaerobes, and aerobic streptococcus species with therapeutic anticoagulation.

Outcomes:

Patient gradually improved and was discharged on oral apixaban. She was instructed to follow up with gastrointestinal specialist upon discharge in anticipation of the need for liver transplant in future.

Lessons:

Due to its high mortality and associated long term disease morbidity, clinicians should always strive towards early diagnosis and treatment of the condition with involvement of multidisciplinary teams.