Body tissue can die of necrosis if it lacks blood supply, is infected, injured, or exposed to chemicals. It can affect any part of the body, including the skin, muscles, bones, or organs. Necrosis is irreversible and can cause serious complications, including gangrene, sepsis, or organ failure.
Causes
Depending on the type and location of the affected tissue, necrosis can have a variety of causes. Some of the more common causes include:
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As a result of atherosclerosis, blood clots, embolisms, or trauma, tissues can become ischemic due to reduced or blocked blood flow. A coagulative necrosis is the most common type of necrosis that affects the organs, except the brain, due to ischemia.
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During infection, bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade a tissue, causing inflammation and tissue damage as a result. An infection can cause liquefactive necrosis, a type of necrosis that affects the brain and surrounding tissues. An infection can also result in caseous necrosis, which occurs in tuberculosis.
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Physical trauma disrupts a tissue's structure and function, causing fat necrosis, a type of necrosis that affects fatty tissues like the breast and pancreas.
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When a tissue is exposed to toxic or corrosive substances, its metabolism and integrity are altered. Chemical exposure may cause fibrinoid necrosis, a type of necrosis that affects blood vessels.
Symptoms
Necrosis symptoms vary depending on the type, extent, and location of necrotic tissue. Some general symptoms are:
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A painful condition can vary in intensity, frequency, and duration depending on the cause and severity of necrosis.
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Depending on the type and stage of necrosis, discoloration can range from red to purple to black to white.
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The lack of blood flow or circulation to the necrotic area is reflected in the coolness of the skin or tissue.
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Nerve damage or compression due to necrosis can cause numbness of the skin or tissues.
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Skin or tissue blisters are fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin's surface. Blisters can contain blood or clear liquid, depending on the type and cause of necrosis.
Diagnosis
A doctor can diagnose necrosis by performing a physical examination and a medical history. Some tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent and cause of necrosis.
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A blood test measures the levels of certain substances in the blood, for example, blood cells, enzymes, and antibodies. A blood test can detect signs of infection, inflammation, or necrosis.
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Imaging tests: These are tests that use various techniques, like X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans, to produce images of the internal structure of the body. The necrotic tissue can be visualized, sized, and shaped using imaging tests, which can rule out other conditions.
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In biopsy, a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area and examined under a microscope to determine the type and cause of necrosis.
Treatment
The main goals of treating necrosis are to remove the necrotic tissue, prevent infection, and restore blood flow and function to the affected area. Some of the treatment options include:
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There are many types of medications used to treat necrosis, including antibiotics, pain relievers, anti-inflammatories, and blood thinners.
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Debridement is the removal of dead or infected tissue, or amputation is the removal of a limb or part of it. Surgery involves cutting or removing necrotic tissue and repairing the damaged area.
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A hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help increase oxygen supply and promote the healing of necrotic tissue.
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The procedure of skin grafting involves transplanting healthy skin from one part of the body to another. Skin grafts help cover and protect wounds, while improving the appearance of the skin.
Prevention
There are a number of preventive measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of necrosis or delay its progression.
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Keeping a healthy lifestyle means eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol are some conditions that can cause necrosis. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help prevent or manage these conditions.
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It is important to consult with a doctor as soon as possible if you notice any signs or symptoms of necrosis, such as pain, discoloration, or coolness. Preventing complications and diagnosing necrosis early can be achieved by seeking medical attention.
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The following wound care involves cleaning and dressing any wound that affects the skin or tissue. Following wound care can help prevent infection and promote wound healing.
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The use of protective clothing and equipment when handling or working with toxic or corrosive substances can prevent skin damage and irritation.
