Premature cell death: causes, types, diagnosis, and treatment
Key Concept: Watch this video to understand the fundamental concepts of Necrosis before diving into the interactive lessons.
Necrosis is the premature death of cells and living tissue caused by factors like infection, toxins, or trauma. Unlike programmed cell death (apoptosis), necrosis is an unplanned process resulting from acute cellular injury.
| Feature | Necrosis | Apoptosis |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Uncontrolled | Programmed |
| Inflammation | Yes | No |
| Cell Size | Swelling | Shrinkage |
Crushing injuries, burns, frostbite that directly damage cell structures.
Bacteria, viruses, fungi invading tissues or releasing harmful substances.
Snake venom, chemicals, radiation disrupting cellular processes.
Arterial blockages, venous thrombosis reducing blood flow.
Common Example:
Diabetic foot ulcers develop due to poor circulation and nerve damage, leading to tissue necrosis if untreated.
Most common type; protein denaturation preserves cell outlines. Seen in heart, kidney, liver.
Tissue digested into liquid; common in brain or bacterial infections.
Cheese-like appearance; characteristic of tuberculosis.
Fatty tissue destruction; seen in pancreas or breast tissue.
Immune complex deposition in blood vessels; seen in vasculitis.
Combination of coagulative and liquefactive; often affects limbs.
Key Point:
Early diagnosis is critical for effective management and preventing complications like sepsis or organ failure.
Treatment Goals:
Prognosis Factors:
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