necrosis
noun
Did you know?
Cells die naturally after a period of time, but may also die as a result of injuries, infections, or disease. Burns produce necrosis, and the bedsores experienced by immobile or bedridden patients are a form of necrosis. The dreaded condition known as gangrene, in which the dying tissue turns black or green, is another form. When untreated, the dying cells release substances that lead to the death of surrounding cells, so untreated necrosis can lead to death. Treatment usually requires the removal of the necrotic tissue, and in severe cases can even involve amputating a limb.
Examples of necrosis in a Sentence
Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 25 Sep. 2024
Avascular necrosis: When this occurs, bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply.
—Maggie Aime, Msn, Health, 20 Sep. 2024
Keep in mind that changes in skin color are typically less pronounced in people with darker skin, so ischemia and necrosis may be harder to spot.24
Changes in temperature of fingers and toes.
—Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 11 July 2024
One unanswered question is whether antivenom would be just as effective at preventing necrosis if it could be administered immediately, rather than after an ambulance ride to a hospital, for instance.
—Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 July 2024
See all Example Sentences for necrosis 
Dictionary Entries Near necrosis
Cite this Entry
“Necrosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/necrosis. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
necrosis
noun
Share