A patient with a diffuse histiocytic lymphoma developed an infection caused by Bacillus cereus during a period of induced granulocytopenia. A fulminant process resembling gas gangrene developed shortly after the accidental penetration by a small piece of metal into his right hand. Incision and drainage as well as antimicrobial therapy did not prevent the loss of the third, fourth and fifth fingers; however, localization and subsequent control of the infection was achieved concomitant with bone marrow recovery.