A Case of Necrotizing Fasciitis after Cryotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious infection of the subcutaneous tissue and fascia. Despite being rare, it may have a high mortality rate because it usually leads to rapidly progressing fascial necrosis. The purpose of this study was to report a case of early stage necrotizing fasciitis that developed after cryotherapy for a penile condyloma, 19 days before the index emergency department admission. Case Report: A 32-year-old man without any history of systemic disorder was admitted to our emergency department for groin swelling and burning sensation that developed 12 hours before his hospital admission. Edema and hyperemia starting from the left inguinal region and extending to the penis and scrotum were noted on physical examination. While initially being considered a case of early stage necrotizing fasciitis and tested for it, the patient rapidly developed a bulla and entered intermediate stage. We hospitalized the patient with an initial diagnosis of necrotizing fasciitis and initiated dual antibiotic therapy. Furthermore, we debrided the wound and excised the necrotic tissue debris. We discharged the patient on the 12th day. Conclusion: Clinical suspicion should be high for necrotizing fasciitis in emergency. Initiating the most appropriate medical and surgical therapy as soon as the diagnosis is made is the key for preventing mortality and morbidity

Keywords

• Cryotherapy, fasciitis, necrotizing

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