Definition of Gangrene:
Gangrene is the death of tissue in part of the body.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Gangrene happens when a body part loses its blood supply. This may happen from injury, an infection, or other causes. You have a higher risk for gangrene if you have:
- A serious injury
- Blood vessel disease (such as arteriosclerosis, also called hardening of the arteries, in your arms or legs)
- Diabetes
- Suppressed immune system (for example, from HIV or chemotherapy)
- Surgery
