Gangrene: Causes, Signs and Treatment

What it is

Gangrene is the death of body tissue. It happens when part of the body loses its blood supply. It can affect the surface — the skin — or the inside of the body, in muscles or organs.

Causes

• serious injuries;
• circulation problems, such as atherosclerosis and peripheral arterial disease;
• diabetes.

Signs

On the skin:

• blue or black color;
• pain;
• numbness;
• sores with a foul-smelling discharge.

Inside the body: you may have a fever and feel unwell, and the area may be swollen and painful.

Treatment

Gangrene is serious and needs immediate attention. Treatment includes:

• surgery;
• antibiotics;
• oxygen therapy.

In severe cases, amputation may be needed.

Sources

Based on the MedlinePlus health topic "Gangrene," National Library of Medicine; a work of the United States government in the public domain.