Fournier’s Gangrene in a Female Diabetic Patient: A Case Report

Abstract

Necrotizing fasciitis is a rare but potentially fatal deep infection involving subcutaneous tissue and fascia. The infection can occur in all parts of the body and can cause acute onset pain, swelling, fever, malaise, and tachycardia with or without evidence of skin inflammation. Risk factors include recent surgery, diabetes, trauma, intravenous drug use, alcoholism, and chronic illnesses. This case involves a 35-year-old female with a past medical history of hypertension, type II diabetes mellitus, and obesity presenting with a painful vulvar lump, which progressed rapidly into extensive necrotizing soft tissue infection despite the incision and drainage of the vulvar abscess, marsupialization, and antibiotic therapy. The patient underwent multiple surgical debridements with intense medical treatment and wound vacuum-assisted closure therapy. Uncontrolled diabetes and obesity significantly increase the risk of necrotizing fasciitis. Fournier's gangrene should be suspected in patients with comorbid conditions and a presentation of a urogenital abscess. This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment of necrotizing fasciitis in a timely manner.