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Gangrene

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Definition:

Gangrene is the death of tissue in part of the body.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Gangrene can occur when a body part loses its blood supply. This may happen from, for example, injury or infection. You have a higher risk for gangrene if you have:

• Diabetes
• Blood vessel disease (such as arteriosclerosis in your arms or legs)
• A serious injury
• Surgery
• Immunosuppression (for example, from HIV or chemotherapy)

• Review Date: 7/17/2006
• Reviewed By: Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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