| GANGRENE!!! |
| If it doesn't kill you, you will probably be missing some arms or legs...or maybe a finger. |
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| Scary |
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| Not Scary (that's Grandma Gangrene) **note the amputated thumb** |
| Gangrene is the death of tissue (necrosis) in various parts of the body. It takes place when the blood supply is cut to the portion of the body...so most likely the toes, feet, fingers, etc come first. People especially susceptible to this condition are those with diabetes, a severe injury, or immunosuppression disorder. Due to the grotesque nature of gangrene, there are many obvious signs that a person can be aware of. These include: Discoloration of the skin or area Loss of sensation Severe Pain in the affected area If the gangrene is internally rotting away your insides a person may feel these symptoms in addition to the previous: Fever Gas in Tissues Beneath the Skin Nausea Septic Shock |
| For More Information to Tickle Your Fancy: Medline Plus: Gangrene Mayo Clinic: What is Gangrene? Case Studies of Diabetic Gangrene |
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| Be on the lookout for Gangrene. Even though you may think it only exists in exotic places like Africa or the Amazon, cases are treated every day in North America and around the world. I am thankful for having a complete appendicular skeleton. Are you? |
| *Four Types of Gangrene* |
| Treatment and Recovery |
| Gangrene is an irreversible condition and demands immediate attention by medical personnel. Emergency operations and possible amputations are always last resorts, but are often used because the patient fails to recognize the warning signs of infection. Antibiotics are also used in conjunction with hospital treatment and medical care. Skin grafting and physical therapy are extensively used to give the person full mobility of their limbs after the gangrene has subsided. |
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| Wet Gangrene- caused by freezing, burning, or sudden interruption of blood flow. Can be fatal. Dry Gangrene-insufficient blood flow due to blood clots. Doesn't involve infection. Gas Gangrene- infection with bacteria like clostridium. Usually occurs at surgery site. Destroys muscle and tissue. Internal Gangrene- interrupted blood flow to internal organs, like gall bladder. |
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| a flesh-eating nightmare! |