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Abstract: We reported the case of a young adult with a Lemierre syndrome, which was complicated by septic shock and ARDS. Because of rapid onset of a life-threatening hypoxemia (PaO2/FiO2 =60) in the course of the ARDS despite mechanical ventilation, ECMO was started with jugular and femoral cannulas, as rescue therapy. Good control of hypoxemia was obtained and ECMO was set up for six days. No significant complication was observed. The course was nevertheless complicated by acute renal failure and a pleural fistula that necessitated separate-lung ventilation during 24hours. After 48days left in the ICU, the patient was sent to a rehabilitation unit. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Few adverse effects have been reported with adjunctive dexamethasone treatment in pneumococcal meningitis. Nevertheless, we report a case of cerebral vasculitis. A 49-year-old man was admitted for fever and altered mental status. Lumbar puncture revealed a high inflammatory response and Streptococcus pneumoniae was identified by culture. Antibacterial therapy and adjunctive dexamethasone treatment were initiated as recommended. The immediate outcome was favorable but due to the onset of focal cerebral abnormalities, a CT scan was performed on the ninth day showing cerebral vasculitis. The patient died on the thirteenth day despite antibacterial therapy and resuscitation. In our case, a secondary neurological worsening appeared when adjunctive dexamethasone treatment was stopped suggesting a rebound effect. Observation of similar cases may lead to modifying adjunctive dexamethasone treatment protocol in bacterial meningitis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]