Gangrene Flashcards
What is gangrene?
Gangrene is a severe condition characterized by tissue decay and death due to the loss of blood supply, infection, or both.
What are the two main types of gangrene?
- Infectious Gangrene (Wet Gangrene) 2. Ischaemic Gangrene (Dry Gangrene)
What is Infectious Gangrene?
Infectious Gangrene (Wet Gangrene) is associated with infections like necrotizing fasciitis and gas gangrene, involving rapid bacterial growth and tissue decay.
What is Ischaemic Gangrene?
Ischaemic Gangrene (Dry Gangrene) is caused by a loss of blood flow, usually due to arterial blockages, leading to dry, blackened tissue.
What causes tissue decay in Infectious Gangrene?
Bacteria thrive in low-oxygen environments, releasing exotoxins that cause cell destruction, leading to further tissue necrosis.
What causes tissue decay in Ischaemic Gangrene?
Inadequate blood flow, often from atherosclerosis or thrombosis, deprives tissues of oxygen, leading to necrosis.
What are some risk factors for gangrene?
Key factors include diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, smoking, hypercoagulable states, trauma, recent surgery, and compromised immune function.
What are the symptoms of Ischaemic Gangrene?
Patients often report a history of chronic claudication or a gradual onset of burning pain, especially in distal extremities.
What are the symptoms of Infectious Gangrene?
Pain is often acute and intense, with rapid progression and a sensation of heaviness in the affected area.
What are key examination findings in Ischaemic Gangrene?
Dry, blackened, and cool tissue with clear demarcation between healthy and necrotic tissue.
What are key examination findings in Infectious Gangrene?
Swelling, erythema, and rapid progression of purple or red skin discoloration, sometimes with bullae.
What investigations are used for Ischaemic Gangrene?
Doppler Ultrasound to assess blood flow and confirm arterial blockages.
What blood tests are important in gangrene?
Full Blood Count (FBC), C-Reactive Protein (CRP), Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), and Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) are crucial.
What imaging techniques are used in gangrene diagnosis?
Plain X-ray, CT Scan, and MRI are utilized to assess tissue involvement and gas presence.
What is the management for non-severe cases of gangrene?
Wound care, risk factor modification, and empirical antibiotic therapy are essential.
