Thrombotic gangrene /θrɒmˈbɒtɪk ˈɡæŋɡriːn/ is a medical condition where the tissues die due to reduced blood flow, often caused by blood clots. The word thrombotic comes from the Greek word thrombos, meaning clot, and gangrene from the Latin word gangraena, meaning an eating sore. The spelling of this word is influenced by the use of Greek and Latin roots commonly found in medical terminology. Having a basic understanding of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can help individuals understand how to correctly pronounce and spell terms like thrombotic gangrene.
Thrombotic gangrene refers to a serious medical condition characterized by tissue necrosis or death caused by blood clotting within blood vessels. It is a rare form of gangrene that occurs due to the obstruction of blood flow caused by the formation of blood clots, also known as thrombi.
The condition typically arises when blood clots develop within the small blood vessels, leading to a significant reduction or cessation of blood supply to the affected area. Without an adequate blood supply, the tissues are deprived of oxygen and vital nutrients, resulting in cell death and tissue decay.
Thrombotic gangrene commonly affects the extremities, such as fingers, toes, or limbs, but can also occur in other parts of the body. The condition is often associated with underlying medical conditions, including vascular diseases like atherosclerosis, diabetes, or vasculitis, as well as trauma or surgery that may cause injury/interruption to the blood vessels.
Symptoms of thrombotic gangrene typically include severe pain, discoloration of the affected area, swelling, numbness, and the development of ulcers or sores. In advanced stages, the area affected by gangrene may turn black and emit a foul odor.
Prompt medical intervention is crucial to managing thrombotic gangrene, as the condition can progress rapidly and lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis or systemic infection. Treatment typically involves the removal of blood clots, restoration of blood flow, and administration of antibiotics to manage infections. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected tissue (debridement) or amputation may be necessary to prevent further spread of the condition.
G. Due to plugging of the main artery by a thrombus.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "thrombotic gangrene" is a medical term that combines two words: "thrombotic" and "gangrene".
1. Thrombotic: The term "thrombotic" is derived from the noun "thrombus". A thrombus refers to a blood clot that forms and blocks a blood vessel. The word "thrombus" comes from the Greek word "thrombos", meaning a clot or lump. It was later adopted into Latin as "thrombus" with the same meaning.
2. Gangrene: The word "gangrene" has its roots in the Latin term "gangraena", which can be traced back to the Greek word "gángraínē". It originally referred to tissue death or decay, particularly due to insufficient blood supply.