Signs of Gangrene

Description

The death of tissue in any part of the body usually from decreased blood flow to the affected area. The disorder is sometimes associated with an infection. Patients with blood vessel narrowing such as diabetics and those with atherosclerosis are more likely to have gangrene. Any part of the body can be affected but the most common areas involve the arms. legs, ears and nose.

Symptoms

Skin symptoms include discoloration (blue, red, bronze or black), foul smelling discharge, loss of sensation, numbness, pain, swelling, and air underneath the skin. Other symptoms include: confusion, low blood pressure, and fever. Many other symptoms can occur if the gangrene affects an internal organ.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be done. Tests to detect an infection and any blocked blood vessels will be performed.

Standard Workup

CBC
Chem 12
CT Scan
EKG
UA
X-Ray

Treatment

Gangrene is very serious and requires immediate therapy. The treatment depends on the extent of the disease, the body part affected and the cause of the gangrene. If an infection is present intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and surgical removal of dead tissue (debridement), are required. In severe cases amputation of the affected limb or removal of the internal organ may need to be done. If there is a blocked artery the patient needs an angioplasty or surgical opening of the blood vessel.