Idiopathic Gangrene of the Scrotum in West Africans

SUMMARY Eight cases of idiopathic gangrene of the scrotum in West Africans, treated without a single fatality, are reported. The mildness or absence of systemic disturbance in these cases is commented upon. This, together with its relatively more common incidence, appears to be the only difference between the disease as seen in West Africa and in other parts of the world. The different theories, none conclusive, regarding its causation are examined briefly, and reasons advanced for supporting the theory that a thrombosis could be the primary cause. Agreement is reached with more modern authors that active surgery is seldom called for in its treatment.