Fournier's Gangrene Does Not Spare Young Adults

Abstract and Introduction

Abstract

Introduction: Fournier's gangrene is a rare but severe form of necrotizing fasciitis, primarily affecting the perianal, genital, and perineal regions. It is a rapidly progressive disease and can be potentially fatal; therefore, it should be treated as an emergency.

Case Report: Presented herein is the case of a 30-year-old man, without significant medical history, who presented to general surgery with complaints of swelling and pain in the gluteal area. The patient underwent emergency surgery on the day of admission to the emergency department where excessive fasciectomy and necrectomy were performed; broad-spectrum parenteral antibiotic therapy also was administered.

Conclusions: Fournier's gangrene is a surgical emergency, and the main cornerstones of treatment are patient resuscitation, broad-spectrum parenteral antibiotic therapy, and, most importantly, surgical debridement. Any delay in treatment can dramatically increase mortality.

Introduction

Fournier's gangrene is a rare but severe form of necrotizing fasciitis, primarily affecting perianal, genital, and perineal region.^[1] It is a rapidly progressing disease that can be potentially fatal; therefore, it should be treated as an emergency.^[2] Men are more often affected than women, with a ratio of 10:1, and the disease can affect people of all ages (mean age, 50 years).^[3] The incidence of the disease is estimated at 1.6 men per 100 000. Mortality rate remains high at 20% to 40% despite improvements in medical care.^[4]

Presented herein is the case of a 30-year-old man, without significant medical history, who presented with swelling and pain in the gluteal area.