Original article
English
EL.Khafifi MH, Muhammed KS, Alaorfi WEY , Osman AR.
Urology Department, 7th April (Hawari) Teaching Hospital, Benghazi, Libya.
Libyan J Infect Dis. 2009;3(2):43-48
Abstract
Background/aim: Fournier`s gangrene is a fulminant aggressive necrotizing fascitis affecting the perineum and external genitalia with significant mortality rate. The aim of the present study was to describe the associated risk factors, presentation, diagnosis, management and outcome of this condition.
Patients and methods: In ten years period a series of consecutive 30 patients admitted in Urology Department, Hawari hospital- Benghazi, Libya were studied retrospectively to assess the risk factors, etiology, management and outcome of this fatal disease. All cases diagnosed on clinical basis. The patients operated promptly by extensive debridement. Reconstructive surgery was done by flap and grafting in Plastic Surgery Department to close the skin defect.
Results: The mean age was 52.8±8.2 years (The age ranged between 33 years and 80 years). 63% of patients were diabetics and half of the 30 patients had perianal abscess as predisposing factor. Mortality rate was 20%.
Conclusion: The main co morbidity and predisposing factors of Fournier`s gangrene are diabetes mellitus and perianal abscess. Prompt aggressive debridement is the only management to save the patient`s life.
Keywords: Fournier`s gangrene, idiopathic gangrene of the penis and scrotum, spontaneous fulminant gangrene of the scrotum, necrotizing fasciitis of the male genitalia, synergistic gangrene of the male genitalia, streptococcal gangrene of the scrotum.
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