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Fournier's Gangrene Does Not Spare Young Adults
Danijela Semenič1, Petra Kolar2
1Department of Surgical Infections, University Medical Centre, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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.