Fournier's gangrene (FG) is an atypical, life-threatening polymicrobial infection characterized by the rapid destruction of soft tissue, predominantly in the perineal region. Retroperitoneal spread of FG represents an uncommon condition described in a few case reports, and its presentation as the first manifestation of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is even more infrequent. Here, we present the case of a 40-year-old male who was admitted to the emergency department with a lowgrade fever of 37.8°C, abdominal pain, and four-day history of sharp, bilateral testicular pain and swelling. On physical examination, the patient was hypotensive with necrotic tissue in the perineum. A computed tomography study displayed an extensive retroperitoneal spread of suspected FG. Due to the massive spread of the infection, an HIV test was requested, yielding positive results, which indicated that HIV/AIDS had first manifested as FG with retroperitoneal extension. This is an extremely rare initial presentation of HIV/AIDS. To treat the patient and address the severe necrosis, a peritoneal lavage, surgical debridement, right orchiectomy, and colostomy were performed. After the procedure, antiretroviral therapy was established with tenofovir, emtricitabine, and efavirenz.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Copyright © 2025 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.