Infarct, in medical terminology, refers to the localized tissue death or necrosis caused by obstruction of blood flow to a particular area. It occurs when the blood supply to a specific organ or tissue is compromised, resulting in inadequate oxygen and nutrient delivery to that area. Typically, an infarct is caused by blockage or occlusion of an artery supplying the affected tissue, preventing the oxygen-rich blood from reaching the area.
This interruption of blood flow can arise from various factors, including a blood clot, embolism, atherosclerosis, or vasoconstriction. Infarcts can occur in different organs of the body, such as the heart, brain, lungs, liver, kidneys, and intestines, each with its unique clinical manifestations and consequences.
Infarcts commonly present with symptoms related to the affected tissue's functionality and may demonstrate characteristic physical and radiological findings. Depending on the location and extent of the infarct, symptoms might include pain, tissue discoloration, organ dysfunction, or in severe cases, organ failure. Diagnosis of infarcts usually involves medical imaging techniques like X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Treatment for an infarct focuses on restoring blood flow to the affected area promptly. This can involve interventions such as thrombolysis to dissolve blood clots, angioplasty to reopen blocked arteries, or, in some cases, surgical procedures. Immediate medical attention is crucial in order to minimize the damage caused by an infarct and prevent further complications, as prompt intervention can help salvage the affected tissue and improve patient outcomes.
