Fournier's gangrene revealing an acute arterial occlusion: A case report

Introduction and importance: Fournier gangrene (FG) is a rare form of necrotizing fasciitis that affects both the deep and superficial layers of the perineal genital region. When left untreated, Fournier gangrene can rapidly advance, leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Herein, we present a case of Fournier's gangrene, which revealed acute arterial occlusion. To the best of our knowledge, few cases of Fournier's gangrene secondary to arterial occlusion have been reported. Case presentation: We report the case of a 37-year-old man with no known medical history who presented with fever and painful swelling of the scrotum. Physical examination revealed a large black spot on the scrotum surrounded by erythema, suggestive of Fournier's gangrene. We performed an extended debridement of the scrotal area. Three days later, the patient complained of severe pain in the left foot accompanied by numbness. Lower limb computed tomographic angiography (CTA) revealed multiple arterial occlusions. Thrombectomy and anticoagulation therapy were crucial in managing the vascular thrombosis and preventing the further extension of the gangrene. Clinical discussion: This case underscores the importance of recognizing diverse etiologies of Fournier's gangrene, including vascular involvement, and emphasizes the need for a multidisciplinary approach. Early identification, aggressive surgical debridement, and broad-spectrum antibiotics remain the cornerstone of management, with the added consideration of anticoagulation in cases involving vascular thrombosis. Conclusion: FG is a rare yet potentially life-threatening condition. Its multifaceted etiologies, including vascular factors, underscore the complexity of its presentation and challenges for timely diagnosis. The recognition of vascular involvement as a potential etiology of FG warrants further in-depth exploration.