A four-year epidemiological characterization of Fournier’s gangrene: findings from 21 cases

Fournier’s gangrene (FG) is a severe and rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis of the genital and perineal regions and is considered a major emergency. This study aims to identify and describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of Fournier’s gangrene to provide a better management of it. Material and methods. the medical records of patients with FG admitted to the urology department of Benflis El Touhami University Hospital from January 2021 to October 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. The main etiologies, risk factors, initial presentation of the patients, laboratory data at admission, antibiotic usage, hospitalization period and Fournier's gangrene severity index (FGSI) were analyzed. Results. a total of 21 patients were included in this study, all males with an average age of 55.4 (with the limits of 17 ans 83 yrs). The leading risk factor was diabetes mellitus (61.9%). The average length of stay at the hospital was 13 days. The most common presentation of patients was swelling (81%), 85.7% of (FG) was of urogenital origin. All patients benefited from initial antibiotic therapy upon admission and received emergency surgical debridement. Conclusion. Fournier’s gangrene is a rare but fatal infection of the genital and perineal areas that is considered as a medico-surgical emergency. Only early diagnosis as well as adequate care can save the patient.