Impact of Body Perception and Self-Esteem Status in Patients with Fournier's Gangrene

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the body perception and self-esteem status of patients with Fournier's gangrene (FG) using the Body Cathexis scale (BCS) and Rosenberg's Depressed Mood subscale (RSES). Validity of the FG Severity index (FGSI), designed to determine disease severity in these patients, has also been evaluated. Materials and Methods: A total of 44 men who underwent surgery for FG in authors' clinics between December 2009 and December 2018 were included in this study. Body perception and self-esteem status of patients with FG were measured by BCS and RSES in our study. The FGSI was evaluated and stratified by survival. Results: The mean age of patients was 60 +/- 12 (range: 35-77) years. Out of 44 patients; 18.1% (n=8) died, whereas 81.9% (n=36) survived. The average BCS score of patients was 89 +/- 33 (range: 43-159). The mean BCS score of non-survivors was lower than that of survivors (59 +/- 25 and 94 +/- 31, respectively) (p=0.002). The average RSES score of patients was 2 +/- 1 (range: 0-5). No statistically significant difference noted between RSES scores of non-survivors and survivors (3 +/- 1 vs 2 +/- 1) (p=0.1). FGSI scores of non-survivor and survivor groups were similar (p=0.15). Conclusion: Patients with FG have the tendency for low illness perception and high depression mood status. Also, FGSI score could not predict the disease severity and patients' survival. Follow-up of psychological status of these patients might yield higher treatment success and lower mortality rates.