Fournier’s Gangrene
摘要
Fournier’s gangrene is a rare but highly aggressive polymicrobial necrotizing infection that affects the perineum and genitalia. The condition progresses rapidly, causing widespread tissue necrosis and systemic sepsis if not identified and treated early. It most commonly affects older men, especially those with underlying conditions such as diabetes mellitus, obesity, chronic alcoholism, or immunosuppression (e.g., HIV or chemotherapy). Early symptoms such as perineal discomfort, fever, and swelling are often mistaken for less severe infections which may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Key to successful management is prompt surgical debridement of all necrotic tissue, combined with broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy. Postoperative care includes advanced wound management, with techniques such as vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) improving wound healing and reduced hospital stay. Reconstructive surgery may be necessary for tissue repair once the infection is controlled. Despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment, Fournier’s gangrene still carries a high mortality rate (18–20%), particularly in patients with comorbidities or delayed diagnosis. Scoring systems such as the Fournier’s Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) are helpful for assessing the risk of mortality, but early diagnosis and aggressive intervention remain critical for improving patient outcomes.