Nontraumatic gas gangrene: case report and review of emergency therapeutics.

Gas gangrene is a well-recognized serious life and limb threatening emergency. In certain patients the source of this infection may be nontraumatic. We present an illustrative case of nontraumatic gas gangrene caused by Clostridium Septicum and review the literature regarding its emergency management. Early recognition of nontraumatic gas gangrene is crucial to reduction of mortality and morbidity. Emergent therapy requires resuscitation, surgical consultation, pharmacological therapy, and consideration of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Early institution of a multifactorial approach to treatment may significantly reduce the mortality and morbidity of this life threatening disease.