Experience of 80 cases with Fournier's gangrene and "trauma" as a trigger factor in the etiopathogenesis

The purpose of the present study was to retrospectively analyze the patients' data presented with Fournier's gangrene (FG), to compare obtained data with the literature and to investigate the role of "trauma" in the etiopathogenesis.

A retrospective study was conducted on 126 patients with FG that consulted to our department.

There were 76 male and four female patients. The mean age of the patients was 53.5±13.6 years. The most common presentation of patients was swelling (n=74). The scrotum has been shown to be the most commonly affected area in the patients (n=75). Diabetes mellitus was the leading predisposing factor and trauma was the leading responsible cause for FG. Escherichia coli was the most frequently identified microorganism (n=43, 53.75%). Primary closure was the most common technique used for all patients. Three patients exhibited a mortal course due to sepsis and multi-organ failure.

FG still has a high mortality rate. Rapid and correct diagnosis of the disease can avoid inappropriate or delayed treatment and even death of the patient. The healthcare professionals should be aware that any trauma in the perineal region could lead to FG.