gangrene
death of tissue because of loss of BLOOD supply or bacterial infection. There are two types of gangrene, dry and moist. Dry gangrene is caused purely by loss of blood supply and is a late-stage complication of DIABETES MELLITUS in which ATHEROSCLEROSIS is present. The affected part becomes cold and turns brown and black and there is an obvious line between living and dead tissue. In time the gangrenous part drops off. Moist gangrene is the more common type and is the result of bacterial infection which leads to putrefaction and issuing of fluids from the tissue, accompanied by an obnoxious smell. The patient may suffer from fever and ultimately die of blood poisoning. (See also GAS GANGRENE ).
Gangrene is the death of tissues in your body. It happens when a part of your body loses its blood supply. Gangrene can happen on the surface of the body, such as on the skin, or inside the body, in muscles or organs. Causes include:
- Serious injuries
- Problems with blood circulation, such as atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease
- Diabetes
Skin symptoms may include a blue or black color, pain, numbness, and sores that produce a foul-smelling discharge. If the gangrene is internal, you may run a fever and feel unwell, and the area may be swollen and painful.
Gangrene is a serious condition. It needs immediate attention. Treatment includes surgery, antibiotics, and oxygen therapy. In severe cases an amputation may be necessary.
gangrene