Wet gangrene

Clinical Features

• Usually due to peripheral arterial or venous disease, but can also be sequelae of trauma or burns causing vascular injuries.
• Presents with swollen, pale, soft tissue, often with a putrid smell and purulent discharge.
• As tissue is infected, wet gangrene presents a higher risk of systemic infection than dry gangrene.

Evaluation

• History and physical examination are usually sufficient to make the diagnosis.
• Given higher risk for systemic infection, patients should be evaluated for signs/symptoms of SIRS/sepsis, including a CBC, and possibly blood cultures and lactate if systemic infection is suspected.

Management

• Wet gangrene requires broad spectrum antibiotic coverage, as these are often polymycrobial infections.
• Requires surgical consultation as rapid debridement or amputation of necrotic tissue is required to prevent further spread of infection.

See Also

• Gangrene