Fournier gangrene in pregnancy.

Abstract

Fournier gangrene is a rare and rapidly progressive necrosis of the perineal and genitourinary region. Although predominantly affecting men, we describe an unusual presentation in pregnancy. A 30-year old primigravid woman in the third trimester of pregnancy presented with a history of low back pain. Subsequently, a diagnosis of perianal sepsis and associated Fournier gangrene was established. The patient underwent an emergency cesarean delivery followed by radical surgical debridement and colostomy. Expedited delivery, timely diagnosis of gangrene, urgent, extensive debridement, and broad-spectrum antibiotic coverage contributed largely to effective management of this rare presentation in pregnancy.