Conditions and symptoms
What Is Fournier's Gangrene? Why Diabetes Labels Warn
Fournier's gangrene · say it: FOR-nee-ayz GANG-greenAlso written: Fournier gangrene, necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum, Fournier's, Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Perineum, Fournier's gangrene, perineal necrotizing fasciitis
Short answer
Fournier's gangrene is a rare, very serious infection of the skin and tissue around the genitals and anus that needs emergency treatment.
What it means
Fournier's gangrene is a rare but serious infection that destroys the skin and the tissue under it in the genital area and the perineum (the area between the genitals and the anus). It spreads quickly and is a medical emergency. Warning signs include pain, tenderness, redness or swelling in that area, together with fever or feeling very unwell. Anyone with these signs should get urgent medical help straight away.
Labels for SGLT2 inhibitors, a group of diabetes medicines, carry this warning because cases have been reported in people taking them. It is rare, but because it moves fast, the label wants people to recognise it early and seek help rather than wait.
Fournier's gangrene is a type of necrotizing fasciitis, which is a general term for fast-spreading infections that destroy tissue. It is different from the common, mild genital yeast infections that SGLT2 inhibitor labels also mention.
Where you may see it
- The 'Warnings and Precautions' section of SGLT2 inhibitor labels
- Diabetes medicine leaflets under 'Serious side effects'
- Hospital surgical and discharge notes
📄 How it looks on a report
Cases of necrotizing fasciitis of the perineum (Fournier's gangrene) have been identified in patients receiving SGLT2 inhibitors.
🙅 What it does not mean
- Being listed on the label does not mean it is likely to happen to you. It is rare.
- It is not the same as a common genital yeast infection, which is milder.
- It does not mean you should stop your diabetes medicine without advice; contact your doctor about any concerns.
🎯 Check yourself
Which of these is the right meaning of “Fournier's gangrene”?
🗒️ Questions to ask your doctor
💊 Medicines whose labels mention “Fournier's gangrene”
Plain-English explanations of each medicine, from its official FDA label.
- Dapagliflozin
a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, a type of diabetes medicine
- Empagliflozin
a sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, a prescription medicine that works on sugar handling in the kidneys
🔗 Read more from trusted sources
- “Fournier's gangrene” on MedlinePlus ↗
US National Library of Medicine
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