Dry Gangrene Research Paper

Gangrene is a severe and possibly life-threatening condition that arises when blood supply to a certain part of the body is interrupted for an extended time. When blood cannot move freely through the body, cells die and infection can develop. When this occurs, the result is localized death of soft tissue (necrosis). Interruption in blood supply may result from an injury or infection, or in people suffering from any long-lasting health problem affecting blood flow. Any condition that affects blood flow increases the risk of developing gangrene. Conditions in which gangrene is prone to occur include arteriosclerosis, peripheral arterial disease, obesity, trauma or serious injury, and diabetes. Lifestyle factors such as long-term smoking increase the risk for developing it as well. It also may occur after severe burns, freezing, or prolonged bed rest (bed sores). There are different types of gangrene with different indications, such as dry gangrene, wet gangrene, gas gangrene, internal gangrene and necrotizing fasciitis. Most types of gangrene are differentiated as being either dry or moist. …show more content…
It is more common in people with diabetes and autoimmune diseases and usually affects the hands and feet. At first the diseased part may be discolored and cold to the touch; later it becomes distinct from nearby healthy tissue, turning dark and dry. The tissue withers and may be purplish, blue, brown, or even black in color and often falls off. If the infection is confined to a small area, the diseased tissue may eventually dry up completely and fall off. Unlike other types of gangrene, infection is usually absent in dry gangrene. Still, dry gangrene can cause wet gangrene if it becomes infested. Treatment involves improving the blood flow to the affected