[CT in Fournier's gangrene].

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the information provided by computed tomography (CT) in Fournier's gangrene, particularly in regard to the early diagnosis of the disease, and its utility as a complementary diagnostic imaging technique.
METHODS: A retrospective study identified five cases of Fournier's gangrene. These patients had been evaluated by CT at least twice. The radiological, clinical and epidemiological aspects are analyzed.
RESULTS: Fournier's gangrene was diagnosed in one patient with no clinical suspicion of this disease. Gas was demonstrated in the scrotal region in five patients and in the perineal region in four patients. The abdominal wall was the most frequent extragenito-perineal location. A good correlation was found between the CT and surgical findings in all cases.
CONCLUSION: CT evaluation prior to surgery is recommended in patients with Fournier's gangrene, particularly in order to determine the extent of the disease.