MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Necrosis

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Necrosis

Contents of this page:
Illustrations	Definition

Illustrations

Meningococcemia on the calves

Meningococcemia on the leg

Meningococcemia associated purpura

Necrosis of the toes

Definition Return to top

Necrosis is death of body tissue. It occurs when there is not enough blood to the tissue, whether from injury, radiation, or chemicals. Necrosis is not reversible.

When substantial areas of tissue die due to a lack of blood supply, the condition is called gangrene.

Update Date: 8/28/2007

Updated by: Daniel R Alexander, MD, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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