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Necrosis Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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necrosis

[nɪˈkroʊsɪs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Necrosis refers to the death of body tissue. It can occur due to various factors, including lack of blood flow, infection, or exposure to toxins. This process can lead to the decay of tissues, which may require medical intervention. The affected tissues can become black or discolored and may produce a foul odor. Treatment often involves surgical removal of the necrotic tissue to prevent further health complications.

Synonyms

cell death, gangrene, tissue death.

Examples of usage

  • The patient was diagnosed with necrosis in her leg.
  • After the injury, necrosis set in quickly.
  • The doctor explained that necrosis can lead to serious complications.
  • Medications may help prevent necrosis in certain cases.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Significance

  • Necrosis can occur due to various reasons, including poor blood flow, infections, or injury.
  • Specific types of necrosis have distinct names, such as gangrenous necrosis, which is often linked to serious infections or diabetes.
  • Understanding necrosis is crucial for medical professionals to develop treatment plans for patients with severe injuries.

Cultural Representation

  • In literature and film, necrosis is often used as a metaphor for decay or moral corruption, signifying deeper themes.
  • Artworks depicting decay and death sometimes reference necrosis to convey the transient nature of life.
  • Horror genres frequently incorporate themes of necrosis to evoke fear and highlight the fragility of life.

Science & Biology

  • This condition is an important topic in cell biology, helping scientists understand cellular death and its implications.
  • Studying necrosis contributes to research on organ failure and recovery in various medical fields.
  • Cellular necrosis is different from apoptosis, which is a programmed and controlled cell death process.

Psychological Impact

  • The awareness of necrosis, especially when related to serious illness, can induce anxiety and fear in individuals.
  • Patients facing surgeries that risk necrosis might experience stress, affecting their mental health and recovery.
  • Educational programs on health often include discussions about necrosis to inform people and reduce fear through awareness.

Origin of 'necrosis'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'nekrosis', which means 'death' or 'the act of dying'.
  • It was first used in a medical context in the late 19th century to describe dead tissue.
  • Combining Greek roots, 'necro' means 'dead' and 'osis' implies a condition or process.

The term 'necrosis' comes from the Greek word 'nekrosis', which means 'death'. The root 'nekro-' stems from 'nekros', meaning 'dead body' or 'corpse'. In medical terminology, it has been used since the early 19th century to describe the pathological death of tissue in the body. Understanding necrosis is crucial in comprehending how the body responds to injury, infection, and disease. Over time, advances in medical science have allowed for better diagnosis and treatment of conditions associated with necrosis, as its implications can range from localized tissue damage to systemic health concerns.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,709 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.