Broadening the differential: A case of penile pyoderma gangrenosum

• Published in: Urology case reports Vol. 33; p. 101344
• Main Authors: Curtin, Patrick O., Sweeney, Tara, Rogers, Marc J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01-11-2020; Elsevier
• Subjects: Immunomodulators; Inflammation and Infection; Penile pyoderma gangrenosum; Wound healing; Immunomodulators; Penile pyoderma gangrenosum; Wound healing
• ISSN: 2214-4420; 2214-4420
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eucr.2020.101344

Pyoderma gangrenosum can be a challenging diagnosis for even the most experienced clinician. Misdiagnosis can lead to delays in appropriate treatment and unwarranted debridement that can increase the severity of the disease. Penile pyoderma gangrenosum (PG) is a rare presentation of this pathologic process. We describe the diagnostic workup and successful treatment of advanced penile PG in a 42-year-old male with a history of penile fracture who presented with delayed wound healing and multiple unsuccessful urologic surgeries. This case demonstrates the importance of keeping a broad differential, including PG, in order to avoid delays to appropriate care.
•Clinical presentation of penile pyoderma gangrenosum.•Diagnostic workup of delayed penile wound healing.•Use of an immunomodulatory regimen to treat advanced penile pyoderma gangrenosum.