Factors Affecting Mortality in Fournier Gangrene: A Single Center Experience.

Background: The objective of this study was to determine the clinical and laboratory features affecting mortality in Fournier gangrene.

Methods: This retrospective case control study was designed to evaluate patients treated for Fournier gangrene in our center between 2010 and 2018. Those patients were divided into two groups: discharged patients (group 1) and deceased patients (group 2). Comparisons were made regarding clinical and demographic features; leukocyte, neutrophil and lymphocyte count results; neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR); Fournier's Gangrene Severity Index (FGSI) scores; number of debridements; complications; and mortality rates.

Results: Twenty-three patients (19 males, 4 females) were evaluated; mean age was 65.91 ± 16.34 years. The most common cause of the disease and comorbidity were perianal abscess (n = 14; 60.9%) and type 1 diabetes mellitus (n = 11; 47.8%), respectively. Escherichia coli was the pathogen identified most often (n = 17; 73.9%). The total mortality rate was 21.7% (n = 5). Neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio, FGSI, number of debridements, and complication rates were higher in group 2 (p < 0.05). There was a substantial difference between the groups regarding perianal abscess in group 1 and rectum cancer in group 2 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: In conclusion, it was believed that the mortality rate could be predicted by combining the NLR value with the FGSI score.