Pathology of Gangrene

Abstract

Pathological features of gangrene are described. Gangrene is commonly caused by infection of anaerobic bacteria. Dry gangrene belongs to noninfectious gangrene. The hypoxic/ischemic condition accelerates the growth of anaerobic bacteria and extensive necrosis of the involved tissue. Clostridial and non-clostridial gangrene provokes gas formation in the necrotic tissue. Acute gangrenous inflammation happens in a variety of tissues and organs, including the vermiform appendix, gallbladder, bile duct, lung, and eyeball. Emphysematous (gas-forming) infection such as emphysematous pyelonephritis may be provoked by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Rapidly progressive gangrene of the extremities (so-called “flesh-eating bacteria” infection) is seen in fulminant streptococcal, Vibrio vulnificus, and Aeromonas hydrophila infections. Fournier gangrene is an aggressive and life-threatening gangrenous disease seen in the scrotum and rectum. Necrotizing fasciitis is a subacute form of gangrene of the extremities. Of note is the fact that clostridial and streptococcal infections in the internal organs may result in a lethal hypercytokinemic state without association of gangrene of the arms and legs. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus may play an important role for vulnerability of the infectious diseases. Pseudomonas-induced malignant otitis externa and craniofacial mucormycosis are special forms of the lethal gangrenous disorder.

1. Introduction

Gangrene is a lesion of ischemic tissue death. Typically, the acral skin of the hand and foot accompanies numbness, pain, coolness, swelling, and the skin color changes to reddish black. When severe infection is associated, fever and sepsis may follow. Risk factors of gangrene include diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, smoking, major trauma, alcoholism, liver cirrhosis, renal insufficiency, immunosuppression, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), drug abuse, malnutrition, and pernio. Clinically, the disease is divided into dry gangrene, wet gangrene, gas gangrene, internal gangrene, and necrotizing fasciitis. In all cases except for dry gangrene, the necrotic tissue is infected. Treatments include surgery, antibiotics administration, and efforts to control the underlying cause. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be tried. Amputation and debridement are performed as surgical treatments. Maggot therapy (artificial implantation of maggots in cavitated lesions) may be performed for digesting tissue debris of diabetic wet gangrene on the extremities.

In the present review article, pathologic features of varied gangrenous lesions are illustrated. In addition to gross findings, microscopic features are presented mainly with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Gram stains. When needed, immunohistochemical approach is combined [1, 2]. Immunostaining using rabbit antisera raised against Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG; Mycobacterium bovis), Bacillus cereus, Treponema pallidum, and Escherichia coli is employed. These low-specificity (widely cross-reactive) antimicrobial antisera effectively yield clear high-sensitivity signals with a low background [3, 4]. Please visit the author’s Website at https://pathos223.com/en/ [5].

2. Dry gangrene

Dry gangrene represents coagulative necrosis of ischemic tissue, caused by inadequate blood supply due to peripheral artery disorders. The term dry gangrene is used only for necrosis of the acral limb [6, 7]. Patients with atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes mellitus are susceptible to dry gangrene, particularly when they smoke. The low local oxygen level provokes putrefaction without bacterial growth. The affected portions become dry, solidified, and reddish black (Figure 1). Once gangrene has developed, the affected tissue is no longer salvageable. The boundary of the dried lesion is sharply demarcated from the nonischemic skin so that autoamputation may follow [8]. Because of the lack of infection, dry gangrene is not so emergent as wet gangrene and gas gangrene. However, dry gangrene may develop to wet gangrene when the secondary infection happens. Diabetes mellitus is a serious and the most important risk factor for developing both dry and wet gangrenes.

Figure 1.

Dry gangrene (gross appearance of two cases). Atherosclerosis-induced dry gangrene is seen in the foot (left). The border of necrotic lesion is relatively sharp. In the right panel, the toes of a diabetic patient are dry and black-colored, and wet gangrene with red swelling and epidermal blister formation followed (the courtesy of Drs. Mitsuhiro Tachibana and Yasuhito Kaneko at Department of Diagnostic Pathology and Dermatology, Shimada Municipal Hospital, Shimada, Japan).

3. Wet gangrene

Wet or infected gangrene is featured by bacterial infection of the necrotic tissue, and secondary sepsis accompanies a poor prognosis when compared with dry gangrene [9, 10, 11]. The affected part becomes markedly edematous, soft, rotten, and dark. Blisters filled with turbid fluid are formed on the discolored and cold-on-touch skin (Figure 2). Secondary infection of Gram-positive cocci is common. Infection of saprogenic (anaerobic) bacteria causes a foul smell. Gas formation is often associated, eliciting crepitation on touch. Causative bacteria are polymicrobial or monobacterial. In case of monobacterial infection by Clostridium perfringens, we call the status as clostridial gas gangrene. Wet gangrene rapidly progresses via the blockage of blood flow, and the hypoxic stagnant blood promotes rapid growth of anaerobic bacteria that often release exotoxins. The mortality rate of wet gangrene is high so that emergency salvage amputation is often necessary. Disseminated infection (sepsis) eventually leads the patient to death. The predisposing disorders for developing wet gangrene include diabetes mellitus, arteriosclerosis obliterans (atherosclerotic arterial obstruction), and calciphylaxis/calcific uremic arteriolopathy or “gray scale” (painful and intractable ulcers caused by arteriolar wall calcification in patients with chronic renal failure under dialysis).

Figure 2.

Wet gangrene (gross appearance of two cases and H&E). Infected deep irregular ulcers are formed in the back of the foot (left) and the base of the second toe after autoamputation (right). Histologically, Gram-positive cocci in the necrotic upper dermis are observed in the debridement specimen (the courtesy of Dr. Yasuhito Kaneko at Department of Dermatology, Shimada Municipal Hospital, Shimada, Japan).

Several lethal conditions described below are encompassed in the category of wet gangrene. These include polymicrobial necrotizing fasciitis, gas gangrene, Fournier’s gangrene, fulminant streptococcal infection, Vibrio vulnificus infection, and Aeromonas hydrophila infection.

4. Pernio (frostbite or chilblains)

Pernio (frostbite or chilblains) is a vascular disease affecting small vessels of the peripheral skin. Persistent low temperature (cooling) or freezing of the skin causes pernio. Persistent hypoxia of the tissue eventually results in necrosis and ulceration. In a chronic stage, scleroderma-like change may follow. Histopathological features of pernio include mild inflammation around small vessels, peri-eccrine inflammation, and necrosis of the subcutaneous fat tissue with formation of multinucleated giant cells. The epidermis may reveal spongiosis, basal vacuolation, and keratinocyte necrosis [12, 13, 14]. Representative features are displayed in Figure 3. These histopathologic pictures are seen in other vascular disorders, provoking a chronic irritative process of the skin.

Figure 3.

Pernio (H&E). Biopsy from the skin of sole demonstrates angiectasia of capillary vessels around the eccrine sweat gland (left) and fat necrobiosis (right). Loss of fat cell nuclei, membranous deposition in the cytoplasm, and focal stromal hyalinizing fibrosis are observed.

5. Decubitus (pressure ulcer or bedsore)

Decubitus (pressure ulcer or bedsore) is formed as a result of long-term pressure, completely or partially blocking the skin blood flow [15]. The sites on a bony prominence are commonly affected, including the skin overlying the sacrum, the greater trochanter, the heel, and the scalp. Decubitus commonly develops in individuals who are on chronic bedrest or consistently use a wheelchair. Factors influencing the skin tolerance against pressure include malnutrition, skin wetness, diseases reducing the blood flow to the skin such as atherosclerosis, and diseases reducing the skin sensation such as paralysis or neuropathy. The advanced age, smoking, complicated diseases (atherosclerosis, diabetes mellitus, and secondary infection), and the use of anti-inflammatory drugs may hamper healing of decubitus.

There is a preceding erythematous stage before ulceration. The late stage presents as a black eschar form. The ulcer often deeply reaches the periosteal tissue. When a pocket is formed, secondary infection may become serious (Figure 4). Infection provokes slow or stalling healing and pale granulation tissue [16, 17]. Infected wounds may have a gangrenous odor. Bacterial biofilm formation leads to delayed healing of the decubital ulcer. Infected decubitus may progress to wet gangrene or clostridial/non-clostridial gas gangrene (Figure 5) [18], as described in Section 7. The colonization of Staphylococcus aureus, particularly methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), in the decubitus must be the important target of infection control [19]. It should be noted that the eradication of MRSA can be achieved only after healing of ulceration.

Figure 4.

Large and deep decubiti with purulent exudation and pocket formation at the sacral region (two cases). Deep mining ulcers, so-called pockets, are noted. In the left case, the 40 × 40 mm pocket is indicated by dotted lines on the skin. Secondary infection is inevitable (the courtesy of Dr. Sandai Ohnishi at Hakuhokai Home Healthcare Clinic, Nagoya, Japan).

Figure 5.

Non-clostridial gas gangrene caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococcal infection (gross and radiologic findings, H&E and Gram). Infected sacral decubitus seen in a 72-year-old diabetic female patient with a history of brain infarction progressed to gas gangrene. The arrowheads indicate the red-colored skin area with crepitation on touch. X-ray examination discloses gas formation in the soft tissue. Debridement tissue reveals massive gangrenous inflammation with infection of Gram-positive cocci.

The National Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (NPUAP) in the United States proposed the staging of decubital ulcer [20].

Stage I: Intact skin with non-blanchable redness of a localized area usually over a bony prominence.

Stage II: A shallow open ulcer with a red, pink wound bed, without slough.

Stage III: Full thickness tissue loss. Subcutaneous fat may be visible but bone, tendon, and muscle are not exposed. Slough may be present but does not obscure the depth of tissue loss.

Stage IV: Full thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, tendon, or muscle. Slough or eschar may be present on some parts of the wound bed. Undermining/tunneling (pocket formation) is often seen.

For the treatment purpose, the eschar stage decubitus can surgically be removed and skin-grafted (Figure 6). Histologically, the advanced lesion shows the full-thickness dermal necrosis with deep ulceration and abscess/gangrene formation. Patterns of bacterial infection are often unique. Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA, mainly colonizes the superficial layer (Figure 7), while Gram-negative rods, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, are observed in the deep layer (Figures 8 and 9) [2].

Figure 6.

Surgical removal of a large decubital ulcer covered with black eschar at the trochanter region. Surgical treatment was effective in this intractable ulceration (the courtesy of Dr. Sandai Ohnishi, Nagoya, Japan).

Figure 7.

Microscopic double-layered appearance of the resected decubital ulcer (H&E, Gram and immunostain). Colonization of Staphylococcus aureus, probably MRSA, is observed along the eroded surface and clearly illustrated by Gram stain and immunostaining for staphylococcal antigens. Abscess formation with ischemic gangrene is noted in the deep zone.

Figure 8.

Pseudomonas infection in the deep part of the decubitus (H&E and immunostain). In the subcutaneous abscess (arrow), immunostaining using a monoclonal antibody against Pseudomonas aeruginosa demonstrates phagocytized microbes in neutrophils. E. coli antigens are negative. Arrowhead indicates superficially colonized Staphylococcus aureus, as shown in Figure 7.

Figure 9.

Another decubital ulcer with massive colonization of Gram-negative rods in the deep gangrenous tissue (H&E and immunostain). Gas formation is associated. A monoclonal antibody (J5) against lipopolysaccharide common in Enterobacteriaceae illustrates an advanced infective process in the decubitus.

The phenotype of MRSA can be demonstrated immunohistochemically in routinely formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lesions [21]. S. aureus is immunoreactive not only for staphylococcal antigens but also for protein A, an immunoglobulin-binding protein specifically expressed on the cell wall of S. aureus. The multidrug resistance of MRSA, determined by the expression of penicillin-binding protein 2′ (PBP2′) encoded by the mecA gene, can be immunophenotyped with monoclonal antibodies. Representative findings are demonstrated in Figure 10.

Figure 10.

Immunohistochemical identification of MRSA in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections (H&E, Gram and immunostain). The Gram-positive coccal colonies in the gangrenous decubital lesion express staphylococcal antigens, protein A (staphylococcal IgG Fc-binding protein) and penicillin-binding protein 2′ (PBP2′), confirming the nature of MRSA. Streptococcal antigens are negative.

6. Gas gangrene (clostridial myonecrosis)

6.1 Traumatic gas gangrene

Gas gangrene caused by infection of Clostridium perfringens (formerly called C. welchii) is a life-threatening emergency, as a representative and grave form of wet gangrene [22, 23, 24, 25]. C. perfringens is an obligate anaerobic Gram-positive bacillus forming spores on culture plates. Traumatic skin invasion of the microbe results in massive ischemic necrosis (gangrene) of the soft tissue involving the striated muscle. Gas production is quite characteristic, and the involved tissue thus reveals crepitation on touch (Figure 11). The gas is composed of 5.9% hydrogen, 3.4% carbon dioxide, 74.5% nitrogen, and 16.1% oxygen. As the bacteria grow under an anaerobic condition, the degree of ischemia in the involved tissues and organs becomes advanced. Tissue necrosis is accelerated by α-toxin production of the microbe. Putrid odor is associated. Intravascular hemolysis is a common event due to bacterial production of hemolysin (α-toxin). The prognosis is very poor. The disease is also called as clostridial histotoxic syndrome. Gram-positive rods are microscopically localized adjacent to gas bubbles (see below).

Figure 11.

Traumatic gas gangrene of the right thigh (gross appearance). Gas-forming gangrenous process of the soft tissue results in marked swelling of the thigh. Crepitation was palpable on touch. Surgical debridement has been performed for the treatment purpose.

6.2 Nontraumatic gas gangrene

C. perfringens commonly resides in the gut lumen of healthy individuals, so that the nontraumatic gas gangrene is encountered in the internal organs such as the gut, bile duct, and pancreas [26, 27]. Representative autopsy cases are presented below.

The pancreas is occasionally assaulted by C. perfringens [28, 29, 30]. An autopsy case of fulminant pancreatitis (emphysematous pancreatitis) in a 66-year-old diabetic man, presenting just a two-day clinical course, is demonstrated. Diabetes mellitus was poorly controlled. The patient suffered sudden abdominal and back pain, and acute pancreatitis was diagnosed by a markedly elevated serum amylase level. Abdominal computed tomography scan demonstrated gas retention in the pancreatic head, intrahepatic branches of the bile duct, and in the abdominal cavity. At autopsy, features of acute hemorrhagic and necrotizing pancreatitis with infiltration of neutrophils were observed (Figure 12). Clusters of rods were identified in necrotic, gas-forming areas, and the bacteria grew also along the pancreatic duct. Neutrophilic reaction was sparse in the hypoxic area showing bacterial growth. Not all of the bacteria were stained blue with Gram stain (some remain unstained), and the formation of spores was abortive within the living body (Figure 13). These microscopic features were consistent with infection of C. perfringens.

Another case of pancreatic gas gangrene in a diabetic male patient aged 70’s showed numerous Gram-positive rods around the gas-filled space formed in the necrotic pancreas, confirming the diagnosis of C. perfringens infection. Gross and microscopic findings of the foamy liver are illustrated in Figure 14. The cut surface of the formalin-fixed liver shows numerous gas-filled spaces, giving characteristic spongy/foamy appearance.

Figure 12.

Clostridial acute hemorrhagic and necrotizing pancreatitis (CT scan and H&E). Computed tomography scan demonstrates gas formation in the pancreatic head (arrowhead). At autopsy, neutrophils infiltrate the pancreatic parenchyma, giving features of severe acute pancreatitis.

Figure 13.

C. perfringens grown in acute necrotizing pancreatitis (H&E and Gram). Gas bubbles are observed in the necrotic pancreatic tissue with sparse inflammatory infiltration. The rods growing in the bubble are unevenly Gram-positive (some bacilli are not stained blue). Spores (representing unstained dots in the bacterial body) are only focally recognizable in the living body.

Figure 14.

Gas gangrene involving the liver (gross and Gram). Numerous gas bubbles replace the liver parenchyma, giving foamy or spongy appearance. The hepatocytes reveal ischemic changes, and Gram-positive rods are clustered around the gas bubble. Note that the condition allowing the growth of obligate anaerobic Clostridium perfringens must be highly hypoxic.

Nontraumatic gas gangrene may be associated with colon cancer [31, 32]. An 81-year-old female patient with rectal cancer became acutely ill with abdominal pain and paralytic ileus. The patient soon died of septic shock. Autopsy clarified nontraumatic gas gangrene of the colorectum caused by clostridial infection in rectal adenocarcinoma. The growth of Gram-positive, gas-forming rods was observed in the cancer tissue, crypts of the noncancerous colorectal mucosa, and also in the liver. Gangrenous inflammation was observed in the entire layer of the colorectal wall. Acute tubular necrosis represented the shock kidney. The microscopic appearance is displayed in Figure 15.

Figure 15.

Rectal cancer-associated nontraumatic gas gangrene in an 81-year-old female patient (gross and H&E). The rectal cancer (arrow) and the edematous proximal colon reveal hemorrhagic necrosis. Gas formation is observed in the tissue of rectal adenocarcinoma with marked ischemic change. Large-sized rods colonize the crypts of the non-cancerous necrotic colorectal mucosa (the courtesy of Dr. Hirokazu Kurohama, Regional Pathological Diagnosis Support Center, Atomic Bomb Disease Institute, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan).

Gastric gas gangrene is infrequently experienced [33]. A 65-year-old diabetic male patient underwent endoscopic mucosal resection of intramucosal gastric adenocarcinoma located at the gastric angle. Next day, he became acutely ill with abdominal pain and distention, and circulatory collapse soon followed. At autopsy, colonization of Gram-positive rods was noted at the base of ulcer caused by the endoscopic operation (Figure 16). The liver revealed multifocal foamy appearance due to gas formation by Gram-positive rods growing among the liver cell cord. The final diagnosis was gas gangrene caused by clostridial infection on the iatrogenic gastric mucosal trauma.

Figure 16.

Gastric gas gangrene in a 65-year-old diabetic male patient (gross and H&E). Red-swollen stomach after endoscopic mucosal resection for early gastric cancer has an artificial ulcer at the gastric angle. Rods colonize the ulcer base. Gas formation is evident in the liver tissue (inset). Arrowheads indicate bacterial colonies (the courtesy of Dr. Chunlin Ye, Emergency Department, Saishukan Hospital, Kitanagoya, Japan).

C. septicum may cause spontaneous, nontraumatic gas gangrene [34], and C. sordellii may induce gas gangrene of the uterus, as a consequence of spontaneous abortion, normal vaginal delivery, and traumatic injury [35]. As illustrated in Figure 17, C. butyricum happened to infect the stomach, resulting in fulminant death of a male patient aged 60’s. C. butyricum, a resident of healthy human gut, uniquely produces butyric acid as a metabolite, hence named. Foamy appearance of the gastric wall was quite characteristic. The liver also appeared foamy/spongy. The formation of spores inside the rugby ball-shaped Gram-positive rod bodies is microscopically characteristic of C. butyricum. This is in sharp contrast to poor spore formation by C. perfringens. Surgically curable C. butyricum-induced intestinal gas gangrene is described in the Section 14.3.

Figure 17.

Clostridium butyricum-induced lethal gastric gas gangrene (gross, H&E and Gram). The gastric wall demonstrates formation of gas bubbles both grossly and microscopically. The growing Gram-positive rods exhibit distinct spore formation in rugby ball-shaped bacterial bodies, morphologically consistent with C. butyricum (the courtesy of Dr. Mayu Fukushima, a pathologist at Hamamatsu Medical University Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan).

7. Non-clostridial gas gangrene

Gas gangrene is commonly caused by clostridial infection, but non-clostridial bacteria may also provoke gas gangrene mostly in the extremities [36, 37, 38]. Early diagnosis and therapy are required, because the disease rapidly progresses to fatal toxemia. This unique dermatologic emergency is featured by the detection of nontraumatic subcutaneous emphysema of the leg with or without association of erythema, tenderness, or bullous lesions. Non-clostridial gas gangrene most often results from polymicrobial infection of mixed kinds of microbes, and it is mainly seen in diabetic patients [39, 40, 41]. The causative gas-producing bacteria include Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Aeromonas hydrophila, Bacteroides spp., and Streptococcus anginosus group (former S. milleri group) [42]. Groups A, B, and G streptococci also cause gas gangrene, as a form of fulminant streptococcal infection [43], as described in the Section 10.1. Figure 5 illustrates the gas-forming fulminant group A β-hemolytic streptococcal infection, caused by a deeply ulcerated (pocket-forming) decubitus at the sacral region of a 72-year-old diabetic woman. Another diabetic male patient aged 70’s with advanced rectal adenocarcinoma suddenly manifested nontraumatic and non-clostridial gas gangrene in the abdominal cavity. Massive transportal infection of gas-forming E. coli resulted in the formation of foamy liver (Figure 18). Intrahepatic vascular-invasive growth of Gram-negative rods was observed under a microscope, and infection of E. coli was immunohistochemically confirmed.

Figure 18.

E. coli-induced non-clostridial gas gangrene accompanying foamy liver seen in a diabetic male patient aged 70’s with advanced rectal adenocarcinoma (gross and H&E, inset: immunostain). Transportal infection of E. coli provoked foamy liver due to gas formation by the infected bacteria. The rods embolic in capillary vessels of the liver are immunoreactive with a monoclonal antibody against E. coli antigen (inset).

Emphysematous (gas-producing) inflammation may be encountered in a variety of organs and tissues, as described in the next section.

8. Gangrenous inflammation of internal organs

Gangrenous inflammation may occur in a wide variety of internal organs, such as the vermiform appendix, gallbladder, bile duct, pancreas, lung, kidney, eyeball, etc. The lesion may be localized within the organ, but it often extends to the surrounding tissues, so as to be fatal. When the anaerobic pathogens produce gas, we call the serious condition as “emphysematous” inflammation (as a form of localized gas gangrene).

8.1 Gangrenous appendicitis

Acute appendicitis is featured by sudden onset epigastric pain radiating to pelvis and high tachycardiac fever. When perforated, generalized abdominal tenderness and peritonism occur. Acute appendicitis is caused by the blockage of the appendiceal lumen (most commonly by fecalith impaction). The blockage results in increased luminal pressure, impaired blood flow, and invasive infection of bacterial flora. When the gangrenous process proceeds, rupture of the appendix can result [44, 45, 46]. Mixed bacterial infection is proven. Causative pathogens include Escherichia coli, Bacteroides fragilis, B. splanchnicus, B. intermedius, Peptostreptococcus, Pseudomonas, Lactobacillus, Bilophila wadsworthia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, Eggerthella lenta, and Streptococcus anginosus (or milleri) group. An average of 10.2 different microorganisms have been isolated from the infected lesion. Microscopically, the appendiceal wall reveals marked transmural collection of neutrophils and massive necrosis with the disappearance of the proper muscle layer. Colonization of cocci and rods is easily observed within the gangrenous lesion. Fibrinopurulent peritonitis is associated. Medium-sized blood vessels are thrombosed, accelerating the gangrenous change. Representative findings are displayed in Figure 19.

Figure 19.

Gangrenous appendicitis (gross, H&E and Gram). Massive necrotizing inflammation of the appendiceal wall results in perforated purulent peritonitis. A probe is inserted at the site of perforation. Gram-positive bacterial colonies are scattered in the necrotic exudation.

8.2 Gangrenous and emphysematous cholecystitis

Gangrenous cholecystitis is defined as infection-associated transmural necrosis and perforation of the gallbladder wall, as a result of secondary ischemia due to vascular thrombosis. Mural necrosis (infarction) provokes perforation in 25% of cases. Gangrenous cholecystitis represents a form of acute acalculous cholecystitis (Figure 20), and the pathology and epidemiology differ from chronic cholecystitis induced by gallstones [47, 48, 49]. Enterobacteriaceae and anaerobic bacteria are frequently cultured from the bile. The mortality rate is high between 15 and 50%. Risk factors for the development of gangrenous cholecystitis include male sex, advanced age, delayed surgery, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes mellitus.

Figure 20.

Gangrenous cholecystitis (gross, H&E and immunostain). Surgically removed gallbladder reveals marked necrotizing inflammation with bile-stained (green-colored) multiple mucosal ulceration. Bacterial colonies growing in the necrotic exudation are strongly immunoreactive for E. coli antigens.

Emphysematous cholecystitis is a fulminant and sinister form of acute gangrenous cholecystitis, and it is characterized by the presence of gas both in the lumen (pneumobilia) and wall of the gallbladder. Gas may be extended to the biliary tree or adjacent structures. Either clostridial or non-clostridial etiology is encountered [50]. In case of non-clostridial infection, mixed infection of rods and cocci is often proven microscopically (Figure 21). Emphysematous cholecystitis, a form of gas gangrene of gallbladder origin, carries a very high mortality rate. Those who suffer from diabetes mellitus or immunosuppression are especially susceptible to this serious condition.

Figure 21.

Emphysematous cholecystitis (gas gangrene of the gallbladder) (H&E). The gallbladder wall accompanies gas bubbles released from thin long rods growing in the necrotic tissue. Co-infection of cocci (arrowheads) is noted. There is little cellular reaction in this highly hypoxic tissue.

8.3 Gangrenous cholangitis

Gangrenous cholangitis is a severe form of acute cholangitis without biliary stones [47, 51, 52]. Varied pathogens such as Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa cause ascending biliary tract infection [53].

A 70-year-old man complained of epigastralgia, vomiting, and difficulty in walking. Abdominal computed tomography scan suggested panperitonitis. Emergency laparotomy indicated an 8 mm-sized perforation in the common bile duct in association with biliary peritonitis. Gallbladder was dilated, but without gallstones. Cholecystectomy and partial resection of the common bile duct was performed. T-tube drainage and pazufloxacin administration were effective to control the infection. Surgical specimens of the common bile duct and gallbladder microscopically showed transmural necrosis with perforation/ulceration and massive infection of Gram-positive cocci. The cocci were immunoreactive for enterococcal antigens, and culture of the bile demonstrated Enterococcus faecalis (Figure 22). Neutrophilic reaction was mild in the gangrenous lesion. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated clustered cocci at the site of perforation (Figure 23).

Figure 22.

Perforated enterococcal cholangitis (gross, H&E and immunostain). Massive infection of Enterococcus faecalis provokes transmural necrosis and perforation of the common bile duct (arrow). Enterococcal antigens (inset) are immunohistochemically demonstrated in the cocci overwhelmingly growing throughout the destroyed bile duct.

Figure 23.

Scanning electron microscopy of perforated enterococcal cholangitis. Numerous cocci, 0.7 μm in size, are clustered at the site of perforation. Bar indicates 5 μm.

A diabetic lady aged 40’s complaining of severe abdominal and back pain visited an emergency suite. Diabetes mellitus had been poorly controlled. Mild obstructive dilatation of the bile duct and gallbladder were associated. Endoscopic retrograde biliary drainage was performed, but the patient soon died of septic shock. Autopsy demonstrated severe gangrenous and acalculous cholangitis and cholecystitis. Necrotic change with active growth of Gram-negative rods was proven in the biliary tree. Immunostaining using a monoclonal antibody disclosed the Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigen in the invasive bacilli (Figure 24). Neutrophilic reaction was relatively mild. The lower (intrapancreatic) part of the common bile duct remained intact. The association of diabetes mellitus was evident: the pancreatic islets revealed pronounced deposition of amyloid substances, and the kidney showed diabetic glomerulosclerosis with nodular lesions.

Figure 24.

Acute Pseudomonas cholangitis (H&E and immunostain). Diabetes mellitus accelerated severe necrotizing (gangrenous) inflammation of the extrahepatic biliary tree. Neutrophilic reactions are limited. The rods are immunoreactive for a Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigen visualized with a monoclonal antibody. Acalculous necrotizing cholecystitis was associated.

Luminal obstruction of the bile duct by pancreatobiliary malignancy is often associated with bactibilia and provokes secondary (ascending) bacterial infection. Enterococci often colonize the cancer tissue, and obstructive cholangitis and liver abscess may follow [54]. They are responsible for postoperative septic complications. The surgical specimen of cholangiocellular carcinoma in a female patient aged 80’s showed necrotizing inflammation of the intrahepatic bile duct, as illustrated in Figure 25. Gram-positive cocci infected the necrotic cancer tissue. Culture of the bile was positive for Enterococcus faecalis.

Figure 25.

Enterococcal intrahepatic cholangitis superimposed on cholangiocellular carcinoma in the surgically resected liver (gross and H&E). Colonization of culture-proven Enterococcus faecalis is demonstrated in the necrotic cancer tissue (arrowheads), provoking acute intrahepatic cholangitis. Asterisk indicates poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma. High-powered H&E picture of the cocci is shown in the right panel.

8.4 Pulmonary gangrene

Pulmonary gangrene is a rare form of acute and severe necrotizing pneumonia [55, 56, 57]. A necrotic process with cavity formation is observed in a pulmonary segment or lobe. The term pulmonary gangrene is applied when a large amount of lung tissue is sloughed off. The extent of necrosis is far extensive in pulmonary gangrene when compared with usual pulmonary abscess (Figure 26). The lesion is often located in the upper lobe of the lung. Thrombosis of large and small vessels plays a significant role in the ischemic pathogenesis. Klebsiella pneumoniae is often isolated from the gangrenous lesion. Infection of anaerobes should be the cause of foul smell. The anaerobes may secondarily infect the lung slough under the progressively anaerobic environment.

Figure 26.

Pulmonary gangrene (gross, H&E, Gram). Necrotizing (cavity-forming) pneumonia is noted in bilateral upper lobes of the lung. Foul smell was characteristic. Gangrenous inflammation is evident histologically. Microbial culture from the lung lesion identified Bacteroides, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Peptostreptococcus. Pseudomonal infection is indicated by arrowheads, and Gram-positive cocci (probably representing Peptostreptococcus) are phagocytized by neutrophils.

8.5 Emphysematous pyelonephritis and renal papillary necrosis

Emphysematous pyelonephritis is a severe, multifocal, necrotizing, and gas-forming form of acute ascending bacterial infection of the renal parenchyma. Extracapsular extension is common. The disease is most often seen in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. The common causative pathogens are Enterobacteriaceae, particularly Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae [58, 59, 60].

E. coli-induced emphysematous pyelonephritis in a male patient aged 60’s is demonstrated. The patient suffering from alcoholic cirrhosis manifested lumbar pain and high fever. Septic shock killed the patient. The total clinical course was 9 days. At autopsy, both kidneys were enlarged and accompanied multifocal gangrenous changes in association with small foamy bubbles. Foul smell was not associated. Microscopically, gas formation was evident in the necrotic renal parenchyma, in association with diffuse neutrophilic infiltration (Figure 27). Numerous Gram-negative rods immunohistochemically expressing E. coli antigens are clustered within the necrotic renal tubules and around gas-filled bubbles. Microbial culture confirmed infection of E. coli. The condition can be categorized in non-clostridial gas gangrene.

Figure 27.

E. coli-infected emphysematous pyelonephritis in a diabetic male patient aged 70’s (gross, H&E and immunostain for E. coli antigens). The enlarged kidney shows multifocal gangrenous changes with formation of small bubbles. Gas-forming infection of E. coli is evident both histologically and immunohistochemically in severe acute purulent pyelonephritis.

Renal papillary necrosis is another form of lethal renal infection of E. coli seen in poorly controlled diabetic patients (Figure 28). The disease is characterized by coagulation necrosis of the renal medullary pyramid: the renal papillae are anatomically vulnerable to ischemic changes [61]. E. coli septicemia often follows, and the prognosis is poor.

Figure 28.

Renal papillary necrosis in a male patient aged 60’s with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (gross and H&E). The patient manifested symptoms of acute pyelonephritis and died of acute renal failure. At autopsy, the renal papillae are necrotic and demarcated with yellowish zones. Ascending infection of E. coli was associated.

8.6 Endophthalmitis

Endophthalmitis represents bacterial or fungal infection of the eyeball, as an acute illness (medical emergency) having up to a few days duration [62, 63, 64]. Patients complain of blurred vision, red eye, pain, and lid swelling. Due to progressive vitritis, hypopyon can be seen at the time of presentation. Exogenous organisms invade the eyeball via trauma, surgery, or corneal infection. When infection spreads to the adjacent orbital soft tissue, it is called as panophthalmitis. Endophthalmitis is localized to the eye, and it does not result in bacteremia or fungemia. Patients with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) are highly susceptible to traumatic eyeball infection. Streptococcal infection may be proven in the surgical specimen. Prolonged inflammation results in ophthalmophthisis (Figure 29). Gram-positive cocci, including Staphylococcus epidermidis and Streptococcus viridans, are commonly isolated after surgery for cataract or intravitreal injection. Gram-negative bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Hemophilus influenzae, and Moraxella catarrhalis infrequently cause endophthalmitis. Bacillus cereus and fungi, particularly Fusarium spp., are the major cause of post-traumatic endophthalmitis [65]. Figure 30 illustrates a surgical specimen of a Fusarium-infected eyeball. Traumatic corneal infection extended to the surrounding tissues such as the lens, palpebra, and orbit to provoke panophthalmitis. The fungal colonies on the surface microscopically reveal several-celled (chained or beaded), fusiform to sickle-shaped macroconidia (hyphae).

Figure 29.

Endophthalmitis in a leprosy patient (gross, H&E and immunostain). The eyeball is totally collapsed and deteriorated. Traumatic infection resulted in ophthalmophthisis. Gram-positive cocci inside the eyeball are immunoreactive for streptococcal antigens. Black melanin pigment in the iris is shown in the right bottom corner.

Figure 30.

Traumatic ophthalmitis caused by Fusarium infection in a Cambodian teenager (gross and H&E). The corneal fungal infection extended to the lens, palpebra and orbital connective tissue. Chained or beaded (several-celled) appearance of hyphae is characteristic of Fusarium spp. (the courtesy of Dr. Chhut Vanthana, a pathologist at Sihanouk Hospital Center of HOPE, Phnom Penh, Cambodia).

Endocarditis-associated endogenous endophthalmitis is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus and streptococci. Klebsiella pneumoniae is another important pathogen for endogenous endophthalmitis. Hyperalimentation may lead to endophthalmitis caused by Candida albicans.

8.7 Gangrenous/emphysematous inflammation in other organs

Gangrenous/emphysematous inflammation may occur in the stomach [33, 66] (see Figures 16 and 17), esophagus [67], colorectum [68] (see Figures 15 and 18), urinary bladder [69, 70], ureter [71], urethra [72], penis [73], epididymis/testis [74, 75], endometrium [76], vagina [77], breast [78], bone [79], striated muscle [80], aorta [81], mediastinum [82], and endocardium [83]. Most cases are categorized in the non-clostridial etiology. Clostridial infection is seen in the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas, including emphysematous pancreatitis [28], as described in the Section 6.2.

9. Vincent angina and noma (cancrum oris, gangrenous stomatitis)

Vincent angina, named after the French physician Jean H. Vincent (1862–1950), represents acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis caused by fusiform bacteria and spirochetes [84, 85]. It is also called as trench mouth or fusospirochetosis. The patients complain of progressive painful swelling and hemorrhagic ulceration of the gum. The punched-out ulcer, 2–4 mm in size, is seen in the interdental papilla, and is covered with white pseudomembranes. Bad breath is associated. The infection can effectively be treated with penicillin. Infrequently, Vincent angina may spread to involve the mouth and throat to be diagnosed as acute necrotizing periodontitis.

Noma is a rapidly progressive and necrotizing infection of the soft and hard tissues around the oral cavity, as an advanced clinical form of Vincent angina [86, 87]. It is also called as fusospirochetal gangrene. It represents gangrenous stomatitis or necrotizing fasciitis of the oral cavity. The preferred age of the patients is below 10 years, and the disease mostly occurs in malnourished children of African poverty. The prognosis is poor. In developed countries, severely immunosuppressed patients (including acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) with poor oral hygiene may suffer from this critical condition. It begins in the form of Vincent angina, and is rapidly followed by painless and extensive necrosis of the oral cavity. Eventually, the extensive involvement of the cheek, nose, palate, and maxillary bones results in serious facial destruction. Hence, the name of “cancrum oris” (meaning oral cancer). Gas formation may be associated. In noma neonatorum, the disease manifests massive orofacial (mucocutaneous) gangrene in the neonate [88]. A similar disorder may be encountered in the genitalia and is called as noma pudendi.

The polymicrobial etiology is known in both conditions. Gram stain smeared from the ulcer easily identifies both fusiform bacteria and long spiral-shaped spirochetes (Figure 31). The key players are anaerobic, Gram-negative fusiform pathogens, Fusobacterium nucleatum (older term: Bacillus fusiformis) and Prevotella intermedia. The spiral microbes are identified as Borrelia vincentii. Many other bacteria have been co-isolated, including Porphyromonas gingivalis (an anaerobic, Gram-negative, porphyrin-producing bacillary pathogen of periodontitis), Tannerella forsynthesis, Treponema denticola, Staphylococcus aureus, and nonhemolytic streptococci.

Figure 31.

Vincent angina (Gram). Gram-stained smear prepared from a painful gingival ulcer demonstrates mixed bacterial infection, including Gram-negative fusiform bacilli and filamentous spiral microbes. Gram-positive cocci and long rods are also intermingled.

Figure 32 demonstrates a diabetic male patient aged 80’s, suffering from noma-like condition (progressive ulcerative gingivitis with massive maxillary necrosis). Numerous bacilli accompanying gas formation and immunoreactive with E. coli antiserum grew in the maxillary bone. Colonies of filamentous bacteria, representing anaerobic Actinomyces spp., were coinfected.

Figure 32.

Noma-like condition in a diabetic male patient aged 80’s (progressive ulcerative gingivitis) (H&E, Grocott and immunostain). A gas-forming, necrotizing lesion is observed in the biopsied maxillary bone. Grocott methenamine silver stain identifies colonies of filamentous bacteria in the lesion, probably representing Actinomyces colonization. The Gram-negative bacteria around the gas bubble are immunoreactive with a commercial antiserum against Escherichia coli, which shows wide cross-reactivity to Gram-negative bacteria (the courtesy by Dr. Tatsuru Ikeda, Pathology Center, Hakodate Goryoukaku Hospital, Hakodate, Japan).

10. Flesh-eating bacteria infection

A variety of microbes cause progressive and often lethal gangrenous lesions in the soft tissue, particularly on the extremities. The mass media often call this frightening condition as “flesh-eating bacteria infection.” Three representative forms, fulminant streptococcal infection, Vibrio vulnificus infection, and Aeromonas hydrophila infection, are described below.

10.1 Fulminant streptococcal infection (streptococcal myonecrosis)

Streptococcal myonecrosis, a fulminant form of necrotizing fasciitis, presents a rapidly progressive gangrene of the extremities caused by infection of Streptococcus pyogenes (group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus), representing a prototype of “flesh-eating bacteria infection” [89, 90]. The disease affects persons of any age. Groups B and G β-hemolytic Streptococcus may also cause an identical fulminant condition [91, 92]. In some cases, protein S deficiency may be responsible for the necrotizing inflammation. It has been reported that vimentin, an intracellular intermediate filament of nonepithelial cells, is upregulated in the injured skeletal muscle cells and functions as the major skeletal-muscle protein binding to streptococci [93]. The life-threatening gangrene follows the subacute form of necrotizing fasciitis or occurs suddenly without preexisting ulceration. As shown in Figure 5, an advanced, deep pocket-forming decubitus in the sacral region may cause the lethal gangrenous lesion categorized in non-clostridial gas gangrene [18].

Clinically, high fever, pain at the site of infection, and skin necrosis (gangrene) with hemorrhagic bulla formation are associated. Scarlatiniform rash may be noted. Finally, massive gangrenous necrosis involves the extremity.

Microscopically, pronounced myonecrosis with foci of infection of Gram-positive cocci is observed. Gram-positive cocci grow within the lesion of advancing gangrenous necrosis of soft tissue. Cellular reactions are minimal, because of the ischemic (anaerobic) state with poor blood flow. In the cultured blood, short chains of Gram-positive cocci, morphologically typical of Streptococcus, are seen (Figure 33). Streptococcal septicemia provokes streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome [94]. The bacterial exotoxins (superantigens) such as streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxins-A, B, C, F, and streptococcal superantigen provoke a severe cytokine storm. Hypercytokinemia activates hemophagocytosis by macrophages. Activation of NLRP3 inflammasome may be an essential event for the cytokine storm in streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome [95].

Figure 33.

Fulminant streptococcal infection (streptococcal myonecrosis) (Giemsa, H&E and Gram). Numerous chained cocci are demonstrated in the cultured blood. Vessels are thrombosed, and the striated muscle fibers show coagulation necrosis. Colonies of Gram-positive cocci are scattered in the ischemic tissue.

The bacteria are commonly sensitive to penicillin and its derivatives, but the intravenous antibiotics administration is clinically ineffective, principally because of the absence of blood flow. The drug can hardly reach the site of infection.

10.2 Vibrio vulnificus infection

Progressive gangrene of the extremities caused by infection of Vibrio vulnificus is characteristically seen in patients with liver cirrhosis or hemochromatosis [96, 97, 98, 99]. High iron concentration in the serum is essential for the bacteria to grow in the body. The genus Vibrio is categorized in the “halophilic” bacteria preferring to a high salt concentration for growth on plates. In contrast to V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus growing at the salt concentration of sea water (3–3.5%), V. vulnificus prefers to a lower salt concentration of the brackish (estuarine) water at the mouse of the river. V. vulnificus resides in the sea fish and oyster, particularly during the summertime. The bacteria proliferate in the gut of the sea creature when the temperature is high. Two transmission pathways of the pathogen are known: transenteric infection and traumatic skin infection. The former septicemic condition is often fatal, initiating a painful skin lesion on the arm or leg resembling honeybee bite. Gangrenous changes of the extremity progress rapidly. Gas formation is not associated. The traumatic infection of V. vulnificus is caused by an accidental trauma of the hand or fingers during cooking raw fish (preparing sashimi) or injuring the foot on the rocky seacoast. The prognosis is better than the former. The incidence of infection of the halophilic pathogen nicknamed “flesh-eating bacteria” is high in Japan.

Microscopically, perivascular cuffing of Gram-negative bacteria, showing a coccoid change, is noted in the involved ischemic/necrotic skin and soft tissue, while the cellular reaction is minimal (Figure 34).

Figure 34.

Vibrio vulnificus infection in a cirrhotic male patient (H&E and Giemsa). In a biopsy specimen sampled in an emergency suite, perivascular cuffing by infected microbes is observed around small vessels and sweat glands (arrowhead) in the deep dermis through subcutis. Coccoid transformation is recognized in H&E and Giemsa stained preparations. Inflammatory reaction is sparse. Gram stain showed negativity.

10.3 Aeromonas hydrophila infection

Lethal gangrene of the extremities or face is also caused by Aeromonas hydrophila in patients under an immunocompromised condition, with diabetes mellitus or on hemodialysis, as a form of opportunistic infection [100, 101, 102, 103, 104]. The bacteria invade the skin via a minor trauma. Figure 35 illustrates gross features of lethal gangrene of the right upper arm caused by A. hydrophila. Vesicles are formed on the necrotic skin. A. hydrophila belongs to the family Vibrio and widely distributes in fresh water and soil. A. hydrophila can grow at low temperature to cause food poisoning (watery or bloody diarrhea) due to production of heat-labile enterotoxins. An outbreak of A. hydrophila wound infection has also been reported among the participants for mud football games in Australia [105]. There were many infected scratches and pustules distributed over the bodies.

Figure 35.

Aeromonas hydrophila infection in a diabetic male patient aged 50’s (gross appearance). Lethal gangrene is observed on the right upper arm. Vesicular skin change is evident. Autopsy confirmed that septicemia caused multiorgan abscess formation (see Figure 36).

Microscopically, the lesion shows clusters of Gram-negative rods around necrotic subcutaneous tissue. Cellular reaction is poor. Gas formation may be associated. In the case as shown in Figure 36, necrotizing foci of infection were disseminated in the rectum, epididymis, prostate, liver, and kidneys.

Figure 36.

Aeromonas hydrophila infection (H&E). Septic and necrotic/hemorrhagic lesions are seen in the rectal submucosa (left) and epididymis (right). Septic embolism is noted in the rectum, while Gram-negative rods are clustered around the dilated and thrombosed vascular structure in the epididymis, where inflammatory reaction is sparse.

11. Fournier’s gangrene

Fournier’s gangrene is a special form of fulminant cellulitis (fatal gangrene) involving the male scrotum and perineum [106, 107, 108, 109]. The necrotizing change rapidly progresses to the surrounding soft tissue, eventually resulting in septicemia. The prognosis is poor. The scrotum is markedly swollen and becomes reddish-black in color (Figure 37). The penis is either involved or spared. The physiological lack of subcutaneous fat tissue in the scrotum and penis accelerates the bacterial spread. Gas production and malodor may be associated. It belongs to non-clostridial gas gangrene when gas production is noted. The preferred age ranges from 50 to 80 years. Male patients of Fournier’s gangrene often have a history of diabetes mellitus. Immunocompromised condition also accelerates the disease. Perianal abscess should be a risk factor of the disease. Masturbation-related minor penile skin injury may cause the disease in younger age [110].

Figure 37.

Fournier’s gangrene (gross findings of two male cases). Massive hemorrhagic necrosis started from the scrotum and extended to the left hip and leg (left). Marked black swelling of the scrotum is serious, and necrotizing change extends toward the perianal region (right). The rapidly progressive gangrene caused death in both patients. The penis is spared in the left case, but massively involved in the right case.

Microscopically, massive necrosis of the skin tissue is evident. Mixed bacterial infection, including Streptococcus and anaerobic bacteria, is often proven. When streptococci are isolated, it is categorized in fulminant streptococcal infection (Figure 38). Secondary surface infection of Trichosporon spp. (an opportunistic fungal pathogen) may occur.

Figure 38.

Fournier’s gangrene (gross, H&E, Gram and immunostain). Debridement specimen discloses massive transmural necrosis of the scrotal tissue. Gas bubbles are scattered in the heavily infected necrotic tissue. Gram-positive cocci are immunoreactive for streptococcal antigens. This case represents fulminant streptococcal infection with gas formation (non-clostridial gas gangrene).

As illustrated in Figure 39, fulminant necrotizing inflammation involved the lower part of the rectum in a female patient suffering from myelodysplastic syndrome. Emergency surgery disclosed transmural gangrenous necrosis of the rectal wall with massive mixed bacterial infection, including E. coli. Occasionally, Fournier’s gangrene has been complicated with rectal cancer [111, 112].

Figure 39.

Lethal Fournier’s gangrene of the rectum (gross, H&E and immunostain). Transmural necrotic and gangrenous inflammation is seen in the lower part of the rectum in a female patient aged 60’s suffering from myelodysplastic syndrome. Gram-negative rods are immunoreactive for E. coli-related lipopolysaccharide.

12. Necrotizing fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis represents clinically severe pyogenic infection (cellulitis) of the skin and underlying soft tissue [113, 114, 115, 116, 117]. Deep, painful, and intractable ulceration subacutely progresses predominantly on the extremities (Figure 40). Minor trauma may provide the entry for pathogens. The condition uncommonly follows surgical procedures. Diabetes mellitus, immunosuppression, alcoholism, drug abuse, atherosclerosis-related ischemia, and malnutrition may be prodromal to this troublesome condition. It may be seen in healthy persons [118]. Necrotizing fasciitis is categorized into two types: type I (polymicrobial infection) and type II (monobacterial infection).

Figure 40.

Necrotizing fasciitis (gross and H&E). Deep and painful ulceration is caused by local and invasive bacterial infection. This aged male diabetic case had a history of arterial replacement therapy for atherosclerosis obliterans. In order to relieve pain and to avoid septicemic spread of infection, amputation surgery was performed. Necrotizing inflammation extends to the striated muscle layer.

In Figure 41, necrotizing fasciitis seen in a poorly controlled diabetic male patient is presented. In the wintertime, a fan heater gave the patient a severe burn on his sole, because he did not feel pain sensation due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The doctor-shy patient did not visit a hospital for 1 week, and this allowed the lesion far progressed. Severe atherosclerosis had provoked dry gangrene in his toes. Diabetes-related neutrophilic dysfunction provided him with the vulnerability to infection. Polymicrobial (type I) necrotizing fasciitis resulted in septicemia. Emergency amputation saved his life. The importance of foot care for patients with diabetes mellitus should be emphasized.

Figure 41.

Localized severe burn on the sole of a diabetic male caused by a fan heater, resulting in necrotizing fasciitis (gross appearance). Because of diabetic neuropathy, deep ulcers occurred on the senseless foot. Dry gangrene on the first and second toes (arrowheads) indicates the association of diabetes-related atherosclerosis obliterans. The importance of foot care in diabetic patients should be emphasized.

Infrequently, necrotizing fasciitis is caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa [119, 120]. Reportedly, the mortality rate of this type II lesion is 30%, and the infection often happens in the immunocompromised patients. Clinicians should consider empiric pseudomonal antibiotic coverage for preventing the progression of necrotizing limb infection.

An 18-year-old female patient had suffered from anorexia nervosa for 6 years. She happened to develop phlegmonous inflammation on her left lower leg, rapidly progressing to multifocal ulceration and gangrene. In 3 days, she underwent surgical amputation. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was cultured from blood and the leg lesion of necrotizing fasciitis. Immunohistochemical identification of the pseudomonal microbe was achieved by using a commercial monoclonal antibody. Representative features are illustrated in Figure 42.

Figure 42.

Pseudomonas-related necrotizing fasciitis in a young lady suffering from anorexia nervosa (gross, H&E and immunostain). Her leg with massive necrotic/gangrenous lesions was amputated (left, after sampling of histological specimens). Massive bacterial growth provoked little inflammatory reaction. The bacteria are immunoreactive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigen detected by a monoclonal antibody (the courtesy by Dr. Takashi Tsuchida, a pathologist in Hamamatsu Medical University Hospital, Hamamatsu, Japan).

Classic pathogens of cellulitis represent group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus and less frequently Staphylococcus aureus, but a diverse range of microorganisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa (as described above), cause cellulitis. Erythematous nodular lesions formed on the leg of neutropenic or leukemic patients were caused by Stenotrophomonas maltophilia [121]. Facial cellulitis may result from Haemophilus influenzae infection [122].

13. Fulminant coccal infection without gangrene of the extremities

Gram-positive cocci occasionally provoke fulminant, lethal systemic infection without gangrene of the extremities. The pathophysiology resembles that of flesh-eating bacteria infection, accompanying pronounced hypercytokinemia and poor cellular reactions. Streptococcal, pneumococcal, staphylococcal, and enterococcal etiologies are described below.

13.1 Fulminant streptococcal infection without gangrene of the extremities

Fulminant infection of group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) is typically featured by progressive gangrene in the soft tissue of the extremities, as described above in the Section 10.1. Streptococcal toxic shock syndrome provokes an aggressive lethal condition without predisposing diseases [123, 124]. It should be of note that fulminant group A streptococcal infection is also encountered in cases without gangrenous lesions of the extremities [125]. Streptococcal infection in the internal organs may cause the fatal disease.

We experienced five cases of fulminant streptococcal infection without gangrene of the extremities (Table 1). Four of five cases were young and immunocompetent, and encountered at forensic autopsy. Infectious foci were seen in internal organs such as the tonsil, bronchus, puerperal endometrium, and urinary bladder. The clinical course was very short ranging from 2 to 4 days. Infective and hemorrhagic cystitis with systemic streptococcal dissemination was encountered in an aged female patient with a history of cerebral infarction and femoral neck fracture (Figure 43). Necrotizing endometritis in a puerperal lady was the cause of streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome, as illustrated in Figure 44. It can be categorized in so-called puerperal fever. Pregnancy-associated lethal infection should be of particular notice [126]. Group A Streptococcus infection was proven by microbial culture in two cases, and immunoreactivities of streptococcal antigens and Strep A were shown on the Gram-positive cocci in all five cases. Strep A is a carbohydrate antigen specific for group A Streptococcus [127].

Case	Age/sex	Clinical course	PD	Primary lesion	BE	MC	Autopsy findings
1	86 F	3 days	+	Hemorrhagic cystitis	+	ND	Bilateral renal cortical necrosis, bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, and DIC
2	30 M	2 days	−	Acute tonsillitis	+	−	Bilateral renal cortical necrosis, bilateral adrenal hemorrhage, and DIC (microthrombosis)
3	38 F	4 days	−	Necrotizing endometritis (Puerperal fever)	−	+*	Hemophagocytic syndrome, bilateral renal cortical necrosis, leukostasis, DIC (microthrombosis), myocardial ischemia, and liver congestion
4	24 F	3 days	+	Necrotizing bronchitis	−a	ND	Hemophagocytic syndrome, acute renal tubular necrosis, DIC, myocardial ischemia, pulmonary edema, and tonsillar hyperplasia
5	35 M	3 days	−	Necrotizing bronchitis	−	+	Hemophagocytic syndrome, acute renal tubular necrosis, DIC, myocardial ischemia, liver congestion, and pulmonary edema

Table 1.

Summary of five autopsy cases of fulminant streptococcal infection without gangrene of the extremities [125].

^*

Negative in the blood but positive from the uterine cervix.

^a

Aspiration of coccal colonies into the alveolar space seen.

PD—preexisting disease (case 1: cerebral infarct and femoral neck fracture; case 4: Graves’ disease), BE—bacterial embolus formation in distant organs and tissues, and MC—microbial culture (ND: not done).

Figure 43.

Fulminant streptococcal infection with hemorrhagic cystitis an 86-year-old female patient (gross, H&E and immunostain). Massive hemorrhagic cystitis is evident. The cocci infected in the eroded bladder wall are immunoreactive for streptococcal antigens.

Figure 44.

Fulminant streptococcal infection with necrotizing endometritis in a 38-year-old female patient (gross, Gram, immunostain). The eroded postpartum endometrium 4 days after delivery is colonized by Gram-positive cocci with positive immunoreactivity for Strep A, a carbohydrate antigen of group A Streptococcus. Neutrophilic reaction is limited in the endometrium. This condition is categorized as puerperal fever.

There are two different pathological mechanisms in fulminant streptococcal infection without gangrene of the extremities [125]. One form with overwhelming bacterial growth is characterized by secondary systemic bacterial dissemination accompanying bacterial emboli with poor neutrophilic reaction. Bacterial embolism in the adrenal gland provokes bilateral adrenal hemorrhage (acute adrenocortical insufficiency), being categorized in Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome [128] (Figure 45). Another form without bacterial embolism was featured by bacterial toxin-induced hemophagocytosis by activated macrophages, reflecting a hypercytokinemic state [129] (Figure 46). Hypercytokinemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) are common phenomena in both forms, and bilateral renal cortical necrosis may be observed as an extreme manifestation of DIC [130]. Hematopoiesis in the bone marrow appear to be normal, but neutrophilic reactions are limited in the primary and disseminated infective foci. Supposedly, neutrophilic functions are acutely suppressed through two different mechanisms during the process of the fulminant disease. The disease is categorized in streptococcal toxic shock-like syndrome mediated by streptococcal superantigens [94, 95].

Figure 45.

Fulminant streptococcal infection showing septic embolism, Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome, and bilateral renal cortical necrosis in the case demonstrated in Figure 43 (adrenal and kidneys; H&E and immunostain). The adrenal glands show massive hemorrhagic necrosis. Septic streptococcal emboli (arrowheads) are seen in capillary vessels of the adrenal. The kidneys show bilateral cortical necrosis with marked fibrin thrombosis in the glomeruli and streptococcal colonization in the renal tubules (streptococcal antigens-positive).

Figure 46.

Fulminant streptococcal infection without septic embolism caused by erosive bronchitis (bronchus: Gram, bone marrow and kidney: H&E). Local infection of Gram-positive cocci on the bronchus provoked hypercytokinemia and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Activated hemophagocytic macrophages (arrowheads) are distributed in the bone marrow. The kidney shows acute tubular necrosis.

Physicians should keep the possibility of fulminant streptococcal infection in mind, particularly when examining the patient manifesting progressive shock symptoms even without gangrene of the extremities. Autopsy prosecutors (diagnostic and forensic pathologists) must realize the difficulty in making an autopsy diagnosis, particularly when bacterial embolism is not identified under a microscope. The knowledge of these types of fulminant syndrome and the appropriate microscopic recognition of hemophagocytosis in the bone marrow, liver, and spleen are critically important for the autopsy prosecutors. When the association of the hypercytokinemic state was not suspected clinically and microscopically, one can hardly reach the correct autopsy diagnosis.

13.2 Fulminant pneumococcal infection

Streptococcus pneumoniae (so-called Pneumococcus), a capsule-forming Gram-positive coccus, is a leading cause of community-acquired pneumonia. Fulminant pneumococcal infection is a life-threatening disease, resulting in DIC and multiorgan failure [131, 132]. “Purpura fulminans” represents an extreme skin manifestation of DIC and Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome (caused by bilateral adrenal hemorrhage). The disease is often seen in splenectomized or immunosuppressed patients [133, 134, 135], while it is also observed in healthy patients without a history of splenectomy [136].

A pregnant woman aged 20’s manifested high fever and systemic skin rash. She had a history of splenectomy 10 years earlier. The total clinical course was as short as 2 days: septic shock provoked DIC and generalized petechiae. The disease represented puerperal fever. At autopsy, the uterus contained a dead fetus. The placenta contained small abscesses with infection of Gram-positive cocci with immunoreactivity of pneumococcal antigens (Figure 47). In the blood, α-hemolytic Streptococcus was isolated. Cytokine storm-related hemophagocytosis was observed in the bone marrow and spleen. Neither gangrene of the extremity nor pneumonia was associated. The final diagnosis was fulminant pneumococcal infection as a form of overwhelming postsplenectomy infection.

Figure 47.

Fulminant pneumococcal infection (H&E and immunostain). In this young lady with a history of splenectomy, the placenta was the entry of Gram-positive cocci. The bacteria with immunoreactivity of pneumococcal antigens are identified in the cytoplasm of neutrophils in a small abscess among placental villi.

Another case (a 60-year-old male patient) of fulminant pneumococcal infection is displayed in Figure 48. Total clinical course was 3 days. The small-sized spleen was observed. Neither limb gangrene nor pneumonia was observed. The entry of S. pneumoniae was unclear. The glomeruli showed bacterial embolism by capsule-forming Gram-positive cocci immunohistochemically expressing pneumolysin (a pneumococcal hemolytic exotoxin). The capsule formation is visualized with the colloidal iron method that stains the acidic substances blue.

Figure 48.

Fulminant pneumococcal infection (H&E, Gram, colloidal iron and immunostain). Systemic spread of capsule-forming Gram-positive cocci drastically killed the patient. The glomeruli show septic embolism by cocci with colloidal iron-positivity (stained blue) and pneumolysin immunoreactivity (stained brown).

13.3 Fulminant staphylococcal infection

Community-acquired methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (CA-MRSA) often infects the skin and soft tissue of healthy young people. Severe invasive CA-MRSA infections include necrotizing pneumonia, necrotizing fasciitis, “purpura fulminans” (Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome) and disseminated infection with septic emboli [137, 138, 139]. The severe life-threatening infection may be caused by CA-MRSA, bearing the staphylococcal cassette chromosome mec gene type IV and expressing Panton-Valentine leucocidin, an exotoxin lethal to leukocytes [140]. CA-MRSA has emerged as an important pathogen in the community worldwide.

A 70-year-old man suffering from hepatitis virus C-related liver cirrhosis complained of fever and sudden abdominal pain. He soon became septicemic and skin eruptions appeared. Blood microbial culture identified CA-MRSA. The patient died of septic shock 5 days after onset. Autopsy revealed massive septic emboli of Gram-positive cocci in systemic organs and tissues (Figure 49). Disseminated intravascular coagulation was associated. Hypercytokinemia activated hemophagocytosis by macrophages. No gangrene of the extremities was observed. Bacterial entry was unclear. The pathophysiological process resembled that of staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome: the bacteria secrete toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 to activate Vβ2-positive T-lymphocytes secreting cytokines [141].

Figure 49.

Fulminant CA-MRSA infection (lung and heart: H&E). Septic emboli of Gram-positive cocci are pronounced in the pulmonary artery branches. Microabscess is formed in the heart muscles.

Another male inpatient aged 60’s suffering from liver cirrhosis received endoscopic ligation therapy for esophageal varices. The next day, he manifested high fever and hematemesis. He died of DIC and septic shock in 2 days. The entry of hospital-acquired MRSA (HA-MRSA) was the esophagus, and disseminated septic emboli provoked bilateral adrenal hemorrhage (Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome) and hemophagocytosis. Figure 50 demonstrates glomerular septic emboli of MRSA and massive adrenal hemorrhage.

Figure 50.

Fulminant HA-MRSA infection (kidney: H&E, Gram, immunostain for staphylococcal antigen and PBP2′; and adrenal: H&E). Septic emboli in the glomerulus represent Gram-positive cocci with positivity for staphylococcal antigens and penicillin-binding protein 2′ (PBP2′), immunohistochemically confirming MRSA septicemia (see also Figure 10). Marked adrenal hemorrhage (right panel) indicated an extreme form of DIC or Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome.

13.4 Fulminant enterococcal infection

Enterococci may rarely cause a fulminant form of systemic infection [142, 143, 144]. Enterococcal gangrenous inflammation in the bile duct was already described in the Section 8.3. Opportunistic, necrotizing, and lethal enterococcal enteritis may be encountered in immunocompromised patients. A diabetic male patient aged 80’s with acute thrombosis of the superior mesenteric artery is presented. In the surgical specimen, the transmurally necrotic small bowel wall was heavily colonized by Gram-positive and enterococcal antigens-positive cocci (Figure 51), and Enterococcus faecalis was identified by microbial culture. Formation of capsules (biofilm), rich in acidic substances, was evident with colloidal iron stain. Septic dissemination of enterococci followed to kill the patient.

Figure 51.

Fulminant enterococcal infection (H&E, colloidal iron, and immunostain). Enterococcal necrotizing enteritis followed acute thrombosis of superior mesenteric artery in a diabetic male patient aged 80’s. In the surgical specimen, the transmurally necrotic small bowel wall is heavily colonized by Gram-positive cocci with colloidal iron-stained thick acidic capsules. Enterococcal antigens are proven. Microbial culture identified Enterococcus faecalis. Septic systemic dissemination killed the patient.

14. Gangrenous inflammation associated with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus

As abovementioned repeatedly, diabetes mellitus predisposes gangrenous inflammation, particularly when the disease is poorly controlled. Here, three special disease situations as severe complications of diabetes mellitus are described.

14.1 Malignant otitis externa

The external ear canal guards against infection by producing a protective layer of cerumen that creates an acidic and lysozyme-rich environment. Malignant otitis externa is a type of life-threatening infection in the aged and poorly controlled diabetic patients. Those immunocompromised patients who suffer from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, undergo chemotherapy, and take immunosuppressant medications such as glucocorticoids may also be vulnerable to this serious disease [145, 146, 147, 148, 149]. Once infection becomes established in the external meatus of the susceptible patient, the bacteria invade the underlying structures of the soft tissue and destroy the temporal bone, and finally resulting in septicemia. Malignant otitis externa should be suspected if tenderness, erythema, and/or edema of the external ear and adjacent tissues are noted on physical examination. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the inciting organism in the vast majority of cases. Features of biofilm infection by Gram-negative rods are characteristic. The biopsy histology is illustrated in Figure 52. Much less frequently it is caused by Staphylococcus aureus and group A β-hemolytic Streptococcus. Fungal etiology is also known, and Aspergillus and Candida can be the causative microbes. When untreated, the mortality rate is around 50%.

Figure 52.

Malignant otitis externa (H&E and Gram stain on smear preparation). In this lethal diabetic case (a female patient aged 40’s) accompanying pseudomonal septicemia, Gram-negative rods densely colonize the necrotic debris in necrotizing petrositis. Myxoid matrix of the colony indicates biofilm infection. Gram-negative rods are demonstrated in the smear preparation.

14.2 Mucormycosis

Mucormycosis (zygomycosis) is infection by the class Zygomycetes, mainly Mucor ramosissimus, Rhizomucor pusillus and Rhizopus oryzae. Sixteen species of Zygomycetes infect the human. Zygomycetes (mucoral fungi) are common molds growing in a moist environment. Fungi commonly have chitin as structural polysaccharide, but Zygomycetes synthesize chitosan, a deacetylated homopolymer of chitin. Hence, serum β-D-glucan, a laboratory marker of fungal infection, is negative in case of mucormycosis [150].

The main sites of localized mucormycosis are the lung and paranasal cavity. Formation of conidiophores is rarely encountered in case of paranasal cavity infection. The gross features of systemic mucormycosis represent hemorrhagic infarction of the involved tissues and organs [151]. Microscopically, faintly basophilic and wide hyphae, showing the lack of septum formation and wide angle of lamification, are seen in the mycotic thrombus. Stamp smear preparations (Figure 53) reveal typical microscopic morphology of mucormycosis. Infection of Zygomycetes is microscopically featured by angioinvasiveness and weak reactivity with Grocott staining, as illustrated in Figure 54. However, some lesions of mucormycosis reveal clear basophilia with strong Grocott reactivity (refer to Figure 57, displaying neonatal intestinal mucormycosis).

Figure 53.

Mucormycosis. Formation of conidiophores in the paranasal cavity and stamp cytology preparation of cerebral mucormycosis in a pediatric acute leukemia case. Aerated growth condition within the cavity is essential for conidiophore formation (H&E and immunostain for Rhizomucor antigen). Non-septating hyphae show variable thickness. Wide angle of lamification is distinct from Aspergillus hyphae (PAS and Giemsa, the courtesy by Dr. Suzuko Moritani, a pathologist at Shiga Medical University Hospital, Otsu, Japan).

Figure 54.

Angioinvasive mucormycosis (H&E, Grocott, and immunostain). Zygomycetes frequently shows angioinvasion, resulting in hemorrhagic infarction of the organ and tissue. Weak reactivity with H&E and Grocott stain is characteristic of this opportunistic fungus, as arrowheads indicate. The hyphae are clearly immunoreactive with anti-Rhizomucor monoclonal antibody, which is cross-reactive with Zygomycetes but not with Aspergillus or Candida.

Cutaneous mucormycosis is infrequently encountered as skin manifestation of systemic mucormycosis [152, 153]. A rare lethal variant is craniofacial (rhinocerebral) mucormycosis, which is encountered as a complication of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus [154, 155]. Angioinvasive colonization of Zygomycetes aggressively progresses from the paranasal cavity to the overlying facial skin and to the lower part of the frontal lobe of the brain (Figure 55).

Figure 55.

Lethal mucormycosis of rhinocerebral type in a poorly controlled diabetic male patient aged 60’s (gross appearance). Angioinvasive mycosis resulted in hemorrhagic necrosis of the face and anteroinferior part of the brain. Infection had been extended from the paranasal cavity.

14.3 Clostridium butyricum-induced necrotizing enteritis

Clostridium butyricum is a spore-forming, Gram-positive obligate anaerobic rod with a rugby ball-shaped configuration [156]. It frequently forms spores even in the in vivo state, a feature quite different from C. perfringens. A male patient aged 30’s with severe uncontrolled diabetes mellitus suddenly suffered from mesenteric arterial thrombosis. The surgically resected small bowel accompanied pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis (gas formation in the intestinal wall). Computed tomography scan demonstrated gas embolism filling the portal vein branches in the liver. Microscopically, gas-filled spaces were formed in the submucosa of the small bowel. Spore-forming Gram-positive large rods were discerned in the necrotic gut wall (Figure 56). Capsule formation by the spore-forming rods was proven with colloidal iron stain. Microbial culture of the blood identified C. butyricum. In contrast to gas gangrene caused by C. perfringens, the prognosis of the patient with C. butyricum-induced gas gangrene is not so poor. In fact, this patient was alive for years after surgery [157].

Figure 56.

C. butyricum-induced gas gangrene (necrotizing enteritis) (H&E and Gram). The small bowel was surgically removed for mesenteric arterial thrombosis in a male patient aged 30’s with severe diabetes mellitus. Gas-filled spaces are formed in the submucosa. Spore-forming, Gram-positive, rugby ball-shaped large rods are identified seen in the necrotic gut wall.

Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis occurs in premature babies. The most likely cause of the disease is infection of C. butyricum [158, 159, 160]. Symptoms caused by small bowel necrosis include poor feeding, bloating, decreased activity, blood in the stool, or vomiting of bile. Poor blood flow results in ischemic necrosis of the bowel wall. Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis and perforation with pneumoperitoneum and peritonitis are often associated. Surgery is required in those who have free air in the abdominal cavity. Breastfeeding may prevent the disease. Probiotic studies have reported that peroral administration of C. butyricum improves or even prevents clinical manifestation of pseudomembranous colitis due to C. difficile infection and hemorrhagic colitis caused by enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (O-157, H7) infection [161, 162]. Neonatal intestinal mucormycosis, clinically resembling neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis, is fetal and challenging to make an appropriate diagnosis [163, 164]. Risk factors include premature birth, malnutrition, and asphyxia. The entry of the organism is thought to be the oropharynx or nares. Figure 57 demonstrates the representative microscopic features of lethal ileal mucormycosis seen in a premature baby.

Figure 57.

Neonatal intestinal mucormycosis (H&E, immunostain and Grocott). The premature baby was treated for neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis. Autopsy disclosed necrotic ileal wall with massive transmural infection of Mucor fungi. Vascular involvement (mycotic embolism) is evident by both immunostaining with a monoclonal antibody against Rhizomucor antigen and Grocott silver. Strong Grocott reactivity is noted in this case.

15. Anthrax and Bacillus cereus infection

Anthrax is a zoonotic infection of a large-sized Gram-positive bacillus, Bacillus anthracis [165, 166, 167, 168]. Formation of spores and capsules is closely related to the pathogenicity of the microbe. Three clinical forms are known, involving the skin, lungs, and intestines. The latter two are often lethal. Skin anthrax, predominantly involving the arm, is an occupation-related infection of veterinarians and those who treat animal hair, skin, or carcass. The latent period is within 4 days. The skin lesion is necrotic and ulcerated to form hemorrhagic crust (eschar or black necrosis) (Figure 58). Characteristically, the ulcer is painless. Gram-positive rods are easily found in the exudate. B. anthracis is the best-known bioterrorist, because the spores are tolerant to dry conditions for a long period of time, and inhalation of the spored microorganisms provokes lethal necrotizing pneumonia. Ulcer-forming skin infection is also caused by other Bacillus species, such as B. megaterium and B. pumilus [169].

Figure 58.

Cutaneous anthrax (gross appearance). Occupation-related infection in a Japanese veterinarian is shown. The lesion of cutaneous anthrax on the left forearm is necrotic and ulcerated to form hemorrhagic crust (eschar). The courtesy by Dr. Keiko Oka, a dermatologist at Tokyo Hospital of Health Insurance Association of Nippon Express, Tokyo, Japan.

Bacillus cereus is associated mainly with food poisoning, but it may cause potentially fatal non-gastrointestinal infection. The pathogenicity of B. cereus is related to the production of tissue-destructive exoenzymes common to B. anthracis. B. cereus produces a potent β-lactamase, conferring marked resistance to β-lactam antibiotics. Clinically, anthrax-like progressive pneumonia, fulminant sepsis, and devastating central nervous system infections may be seen in immunocompromised individuals, intravenous drug abusers, and neonates. It also occurs in immunocompetent individuals [170]. The primary cutaneous/soft tissue infection of B. cereus, mimicking necrotizing fasciitis or non-clostridial gas gangrene induced subsequent to trauma, has been documented [171, 172].

Figure 59 demonstrates primary necrotizing infection of B. cereus in the soft tissue of the hip, as a form of necrotizing fasciitis. Gas formation was not associated in this case. Trauma-related soft tissue gangrene, caused by a spore-forming Gram-positive bacillus, B. cereus, led this diabetic adult patient to death. Gram-positive rods heavily colonized the necrohemorrhagic muscle tissue.

Figure 59.

Bacillus cereus-induced necrotizing fasciitis (H&E, Gram and immunostain). Trauma-related lethal soft tissue gangrene is formed on the hip of the diabetic patient. Gram-positive rods colonize the necrohemorrhagic soft tissue. Immunostaining for Bacillus cereus antigens is strongly positive (the courtesy of Dr. Etsuko Nakamura, a pathologist at Toyohashi Medical Center, Toyohashi, Japan).

A 68-year-old housewife received intermittent chemotherapy against lymphoplasmacytic leukemia for 13 years. Her blood contained numbers of indolent small-sized leukemic cells. She happened to take curdled milk, and next day she complained of dyspnea and consciousness disturbance. She expired soon. The growth of B. cereus in fluid milk had provoked sweet curdling [173]. Autopsy disclosed massive hemorrhagic and necrotizing pneumonia caused by B. cereus in the right lower lobe. Spore-forming Gram-positive rods were identified in the lesion (Figure 60). B. cereus antiserum clearly labeled spores in the rod-shaped bacteria. It is highly likely that aspiration of the curdled milk resulted in lethal B. cereus pneumonia.

Figure 60.

Lethal Bacillus cereus pneumonia in a female patient with indolent leukemia (gross, Gram and immunostain). Severe necrotizing hemorrhagic pneumonia was caused by incidental aspiration of sweet-curdled milk. Gram-positive rods grow in the necrotic lesion. The antiserum against B. cereus labels spores in the rods.

16. Conclusive remarks

The author reviewed pathological aspects of a variety of gangrenous lesions. The causative pathogens are commonly anaerobic. Often times, the lesions are clinically severe and fulminant, and often encountered at autopsy. The exact morphological recognition of the respective lesions is essential for the pathologists to make an appropriate histopathologic diagnosis. Immunohistochemical approach is useful for identifying the pathogenic microorganisms. The author sincerely hopes that the present chapter may contribute to brushing up of the knowledge of the lesions with relatively low frequency but with high clinical implications.

Disclosure

There were no funding sources for reporting the present chapter. The author has no conflict of interest for reviewing the present chapter.