Final answer:
Necrotizing fasciitis confined to the perineum and scrotum is known as Fournier's gangrene, a severe infection that necessitates surgical and antibiotic treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Necrotizing fasciitis confined to the perineum and scrotum is known as Fournier's gangrene. This severe infection occurs when bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes or other species like Klebsiella, Clostridium, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aeromonas hydrophila invade the fascia, a layer of connective tissue. These bacteria release toxins, including proteases in the case of S. pyogenes, which break down the tissue, leading to the destruction and death of tissue. Patients with necrotizing fasciitis often require immediate surgical intervention to remove dead tissue, combined with intravenous antibiotics to combat the infection.