Medical Term Definition

Necrosis

Necrosis is the death of cells or tissues as a result of injury or other pathological processes.

Necrosis occurs when cells are damaged beyond their ability to survive, often because of inadequate blood supply, infection, toxins, physical injury, or other harmful conditions. The damaged cells undergo structural changes and eventually break down.

Necrosis can occur in a small area of tissue or affect a substantial part of an organ. Depending on its location and cause, it can impair organ function and trigger inflammation in surrounding tissues.

QUICK FACT

Necrosis is irreversible cell or tissue death. Once a cell has undergone necrosis, it cannot recover.

COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH

Apoptosis: Apoptosis is a regulated form of cell death that normally occurs as part of biological processes, whereas necrosis generally results from injury or pathological conditions.

SEE ALSO