[Gas gangrene in urologic diseases. An example based on 3 case reports]

Gas gangrene is a rare infection of grave consequences. It is caused by obligatory anaerobic bacteria. Its appearance in urology is extremely rare. The infection can be acquired either from the outside or from enteral invasion of saprophytes, which are common in body cavities. Very often resistance-weak patients are attacked. In acute cases with typical signs of sepsis in addition to local signs of infection, a fatal outcome cannot be prevented in all cases despite adequate early therapy. Search for bacteria is mostly in vain. The 3 cases demonstrate that absolute asepsis and hygienic rules in simple manipulations (e.g. catheterizing as well as in major urologic operations are absolutely necessary. Traumatic lesions must be reduced to a minimum. Therapy must be started immediately.