Title

Fournier gangrene: role of imaging

UMMS Affiliation

Department of Radiology

Publication Date

2008-03-20

Document Type

Article

Subjects

Diagnosis, Differential; Early Diagnosis; Fournier Gangrene; Humans; Risk Factors; *Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Disciplines

Life Sciences | Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

Fournier gangrene is a rapidly progressing necrotizing fasciitis involving the perineal, perianal, or genital regions and constitutes a true surgical emergency with a potentially high mortality rate. Although the diagnosis of Fournier gangrene is often made clinically, emergency computed tomography (CT) can lead to early diagnosis with accurate assessment of disease extent. CT not only helps evaluate the perineal structures that can become involved by Fournier gangrene, but also helps assess the retroperitoneum, to which the disease can spread. Findings at CT include asymmetric fascial thickening, subcutaneous emphysema, fluid collections, and abscess formation. Subcutaneous emphysema is the hallmark of Fournier gangrene but is not seen in all cases. Compared with radiography and ultrasonography, CT provides a higher specificity for the diagnosis of Fournier gangrene and superior evaluation of disease extent; however, diagnosis and evaluation can also be performed with these other modalities. The administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics and aggressive surgical debridement of the nonviable tissue are both essential for successful treatment. An awareness of the CT features of Fournier gangrene is imperative for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

DOI of Published Version

10.1148/rg.282075048

Source

Radiographics. 2008 Mar-Apr;28(2):519-28. Link to article on publisher's site

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Radiographics : a review publication of the Radiological Society of North America, Inc

Related Resources

Link to Article in PubMed

PubMed ID

18349455

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