WHITE GANGRENE Meaning and
Definition
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White gangrene, also known as dry gangrene or mummification necrosis, refers to a medical condition characterized by the death and decay of tissue due to reduced blood supply, leading to a pale or white appearance. This type of gangrene typically occurs in extremities such as the hands, feet, or fingers, and is predominantly caused by arterial blockage or occlusion, typically associated with conditions like atherosclerosis, diabetes, or frostbite.
The restricted blood flow results in the lack of oxygen and essential nutrients required for tissue survival, leading to the death of cells and subsequent decay. As a consequence, affected areas may become cold, rigid, and develop a shriveled appearance. Unlike other types of gangrene, white gangrene does not involve bacterial infection or the presence of foul odor, primarily due to the absence of necrotic tissue breakdown.
Treatment for white gangrene usually involves restoring proper blood circulation to the affected area, either through surgical interventions like revascularization or by removing the underlying cause, such as addressing atherosclerosis. Depending on the severity and extent of tissue damage, surgical debridement to remove dead tissue may also be necessary. In severe cases, amputation of the affected limb or extremity may be the only solution to prevent the spread of gangrene and further complications.
Prompt medical attention is essential as white gangrene can progress rapidly and may lead to severe complications or even be life-threatening. Regular monitoring of risk factors like diabetes, atherosclerosis, or peripheral artery disease, along with maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, can help reduce the chances of developing white gangrene.
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Death of a part accompanied by the formation of grayish white sloughs.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WHITE GANGRENE
- qhite gangrene
- ahite gangrene
- shite gangrene
- ehite gangrene
- 3hite gangrene
- 2hite gangrene
- wgite gangrene
- wbite gangrene
- wnite gangrene
- wjite gangrene
- wuite gangrene
- wyite gangrene
- whute gangrene
- whjte gangrene
- whkte gangrene
- whote gangrene
- wh9te gangrene
- wh8te gangrene
- whire gangrene
- whife gangrene
Etymology of WHITE GANGRENE
The term white gangrene does not have a specific etymology as it is not a recognized medical condition. The term is not commonly used in medical literature or by healthcare professionals. It may be a misinterpretation or a specific term used in a localized or regional context. However, the general term gangrene has an etymology rooted in Greek. It comes from the Greek word gangraina meaning an eating sore or a gnawing ulcer.
