EXTENSIVE NECROTIZING SOFT-TISSUE INFECTION OF THE PERINEUM

Synergistic necrotizing fasciitis of the penis and scrotum was first d escribed by Fournier, and remains a rare, but life-threatening disease . The reported mortality rates in different series range between 22 an d 60%, We present a study of 20 patients treated over a 9 year period by early aggressive excision. Four of the treated patients (20%) died. A high index of suspicion, combined with early radical surgical inter vention, is the key to effective treatment. Delayed diagnosis and trea tment were the primary factors responsible for death.