[Fournier's gangrene associated with carcinoma of the colon]

A case of Fournier's gangrene associated with colon carcinoma was reported. Fournier's gangrene is a progressive soft tissue infection of the perineal and scrotal region.

A 50-year-old man was transferred to our hospital with clinical signs of septic shock and necrotizing soft tissue infection, of the scrotal and perianal regions. Local examination revealed a communication between rectum and left ishioanal fossa, many openings in the skin with purulent discharge and crepitus. After resuscitation the patient underwent emergent operation. Surgical debridements were performed. The wounds healed well with good granulation tissue.

The majority of patients with Fournier's gangrene are immunocompromised. Malignant disease, obesity, diabetes mellitus and peripheral vascular disease have been cited as the main predisposing factors. The origin of this synergic infection is in alimentary and urinary tract. As a rule, penis, testes, bladder and rectum are spared. Conventional treatment includes repeated surgical debridement, special antibiotic regimen to cover both, aerobes and anaerobes, and intensive care treatment. Despite optimal medical and surgical management the mortality rate in Fournier's gangrene still remains high.