Pyoderma gangrenosum post open radical prostatectomy – A complication every urologist should consider and recognise

Abstract

Post-operative pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare neutrophilic dermatosis which forms within skin wounds following surgery. This condition is not well recognised, can be difficult to diagnose and often mimics necrotising fasciitis. While wound exploration and debridement remains the standard of care in post-operative wound infection, this can paradoxically exacerbate pyoderma gangrenosum resulting in further morbidity and mortality. As such, surgeons that encounter post-operative pyoderma gangrenosum face a diagnostic dilemma. Here we present a 65 year old gentleman who developed pyoderma gangrenosum following open radical prostatectomy. We reflect on his management and discuss the pertinent points learned from this case.

Keywords

• Post-operative pyoderma gangrenosum
• Pyoderma gangrenosum
• Radical prostatectomy
• Radical prostatectomy post-operative complication