Thrombocytopenia with external genital gangrene

Genital gangrene in men is frequently labeled as of idiopathic origin when no local traumatic or infectious etiology can be determined. Symmetrical peripheral gangrene of extremities has been seen with thrombocytopenia induced by prior microbial illness. An example of gangrene of the male genital organs associated with presumed virally induced thrombocytopenia was encountered, requiring corticosteroid therapy and platelet transfusion in addition to surgical extirpation of necrotic tissues. When no local cause is obvious, patients with genital gangrene should be evaluated for thrombocytopenia.