Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Necrosis is the process of premature cell death caused by external factors such as toxins, infection, or trauma. Unlike apoptosis, necrosis is an uncontrolled and often detrimental process leading to cell and tissue damage.
A programmed and controlled process of cellular self-destruction that plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of an organism by eliminating old, unnecessary, or damaged cells.
The biological response of body tissues to harmful stimuli, such as pathogens or damaged cells, characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain.
Gangrene: A type of necrosis combined with bacterial infection that affects a significant amount of tissue mass, often occurring in extremities due to reduced blood supply