Two cases of Fournier's gangrene in which toxemia and gangrene of the scrotum developed due to perianal abscesses are described. Cultures of anaerobic gram-negative Bacteroides with a mixed flora of Pseudomonas, E. coli and Proteus were obtained. Early diagnosis, wide and deep incisions, debridement of the necrotic tissue, and adequate antibiotic therapy can prevent a fatal outcome of this disease. A high mortality rate is still prevalent.