Progressive bacterial synergistic gangrene (Meleney's gangrene): a rare case

Meleney's gangrene, also known as progressive bacterial synergistic gangrene, is a type of necrotising fasciitis. It is believed that it arises from synergistic effects of multiple bacterial agents, hence its name. In this case report, we present a non-surgical treatment approach of lower extremity Meleney's gangrene. A 32-year-old female patient was found to have a necrotic wound measuring 10×2cm on the inferior-lateral aspect of the thigh. A pouch of approximately 30×30cm was found on the subcutaneous deep muscle layer, extending to both anterior and posterior thigh. Effective treatment modalities can be implemented only if early diagnosis of this unique type of gangrene is possible. Therefore, Meleney's gangrene should be kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous soft tissue infections.