Gangrene: meaning, definitions and examples
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gangrene
[ˈɡæŋɡriːn ]
Definition
medical condition
Gangrene is a serious medical condition that occurs when body tissue dies due to a lack of blood flow or infection. It can be caused by various factors, including injury, surgery, diabetes, or infections. There are different types of gangrene, including dry gangrene, wet gangrene, and gas gangrene, each with its own characteristics and treatment approaches. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if gangrene is suspected, as it can lead to severe complications, including amputation or death if left untreated.
Synonyms
dead tissue, mortification, tissue necrosis.
Examples of usage
- The doctor diagnosed him with dry gangrene.
- Gangrene can develop after a severe infection.
- Wet gangrene can spread rapidly and requires urgent care.
- People with diabetes are at higher risk for gangrene.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Greek 'gangraina,' meaning 'to become sore' or 'to wither.'
- In Latin, it was adapted to 'gangraena,' reflecting the transition through languages over time.
Medical Facts
- There are two main types: wet gangrene, which is caused by bacteria, and dry gangrene, which results from poor blood flow.
- Gangrene can lead to serious health complications and often requires surgical intervention to remove dead tissue.
- Diabetes, traumatic injuries, and infections are common contributors to the development of this condition.
Historical Context
- Throughout history, gangrene has been a notable cause of amputation during wars, especially before modern medicine advanced.
- In the past, soldiers often suffered from gangrene due to injuries that became infected in unsanitary battlefield conditions.
Cultural References
- The term appears in literature and film as a metaphor for decay or moral corruption, demonstrating its wider cultural implications.
- Expressions like 'gangrenous decay' are used in various narratives to describe the deterioration of society or relationships.
Prevention and Treatment
- Prompt treatment of wounds, maintaining good hygiene, and managing chronic health conditions can help prevent gangrene.
- Advanced techniques like hyperbaric oxygen therapy are used to treat certain types of gangrene by improving blood supply to affected areas.
Translations
Translations of the word "gangrene" in other languages:
🇵🇹 gangrena
🇮🇳 गैंग्रीन
🇩🇪 Gangrän
🇮🇩 gangren
🇺🇦 гангрена
🇵🇱 zgorzel
🇯🇵 壊死
🇫🇷 gangrène
🇪🇸 gangrena
🇹🇷 kangren
🇰🇷 괴저
🇸🇦 غرغرينا
🇨🇿 gangréna
🇸🇰 gangréna
🇨🇳 坏死
🇸🇮 gangrena
🇮🇸 gangræn
🇰🇿 гангрена
🇬🇪 განგრენა
🇦🇿 qanqren
🇲🇽 gangrena