An infarction is the death of tissue (necrosis) due to a lack of sufficient blood supply to that area. This can lead to serious health problems.
Understanding Infarction
Infarctions occur when the blood supply is cut off to a part of the body. The lack of blood means the tissue is deprived of oxygen and nutrients, which causes cell death. The resulting dead tissue area is called an infarct.
Causes of Infarction
Several factors can lead to an infarction, including:
- Artery Blockages: A common cause is the blockage of an artery. This can happen due to blood clots, plaque buildup (atherosclerosis), or other obstructions.
- Rupture: The rupture of a blood vessel can also interrupt the blood supply leading to infarction.
- Mechanical Compression: External pressure on a blood vessel may also restrict blood flow and cause tissue damage.
- Vasoconstriction: Excessive narrowing of blood vessels (vasoconstriction) can also reduce blood flow to the tissue and cause infarction.
Consequences of Infarction
The consequences of an infarction depend on the location and size of the affected area. For example:
- Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): An infarction in the heart muscle is very dangerous and needs immediate medical attention.
- Cerebral Infarction (Stroke): An infarction in the brain can cause severe neurological issues, such as speech impairment, weakness, and paralysis.
- Pulmonary Infarction: An infarction in the lungs can impair breathing and is often linked to pulmonary embolism.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Tissue death (necrosis) due to inadequate blood supply |
| Cause | Artery blockages, rupture, mechanical compression, or vasoconstriction |
| Resulting Lesion | An infarct |
| Common Examples | Myocardial infarction (heart attack), cerebral infarction (stroke), pulmonary infarction |
In short, an infarction represents a significant medical condition resulting from a lack of blood flow, potentially leading to serious complications.
