Musculoskeletal CT Appearances

Gas Gangrene CT Findings

• Myonecrosis with reduced enhancement
• Asymmetrical fascial thickening
• Subcutaneous emphysema
• Fat stranding
• Fluid collection
• Formation of abscesses
• May be associated with osteomyelitis

Other Information About Gas Gangrene

Etiology:

• Trauma
• Surgery
• May be spontaneous

Epidemiology:

• Patients with colon malignancy or diabetes are more likely to develop spontaneous gas gangrene

Presentation:

• Swelling and bruising of the skin
• Pain
• Tachycardia
• Hypotension
• Area may have foul scent

Prognosis:

• Needs immediate medical attention
• Can be treated with antibiotics and/or surgery