[Fournier's gangrene--atypical onset for lower rectal cancer]

Abstract

The onset for rectal cancer is often revealed by one of its complications. With lower frequency, for the rectum below peritoneal reflexion, the perforative-suppurative onset is possible. We wish to expose a 64 years old woman's case, presenting with Fournier's gangrene as a unique sign of a lower rectal adenocarcinoma. Diabetes mellitus determined the extension of infectious process to its ultimate form, and the poor postoperative evolution, leading to death as well. The need for rectal examination is obvious in perianal abscesses, even in absence of malignant signs.