[Fournier's gangrene: report of 2 cases and review of the literature].

Fournier's gangrene is an extensive fulminant infection of the genitals, perineum or the abdominal wall. Since the first description by Jean Alfred Fournier in 1883 about 700 cases have been reported in the literature. The main aetiological factors are: perianal, perirectal or periurethral infections, diabetes mellitus and chronic alcoholism. Many aerobic and anaerobic organisms may be involved. Mortality rates range from 30-50%. The dramatic course of Fournier's gangrene requires early recognition, surgical drainage, extensive surgical debridment, antimicrobial therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, as well as intensive care treatment in order to prevent irreversible endotoxic shock. We report two cases of Fournier's gangrene. In both cases symptoms were fever, pain and extensive cutaneous necrosis in the scroto-perineal region.