Fusobacterium necrophorum, an emerging pathogen of otogenic and paranasal infections?

Fusobacterium necrophorum is a rare causative agent of otitis and sinusitis. Most commonly known is the classic Lemièrre's syndrome of postanginal sepsis with suppurative thrombophlebitis of the jugular vein. We report five patients diagnosed recently with a complicated infection with F. necrophorum originating from otitis or sinusitis. Two patients recovered completely, one patient died due to complications of the infection, one patient retained a slight hemiparesis and one patient had permanent hearing loss. Diagnosis and management are discussed. A possible factor in the emergence of F. necrophorum is proposed.