Dead skin turns black due to a lack of blood flow, resulting in tissue death, a condition often referred to as necrosis or gangrene. This discoloration is a symptom of several underlying medical conditions.
Causes of Blackened Dead Skin
Several factors can cause dead skin to turn black:
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Gangrene: This serious condition occurs when blood supply to tissue is cut off, causing the tissue to die and turn a greenish-black color. Gangrene | Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that this can manifest as dry gangrene (dry, shrunken, black tissue) or wet gangrene (bacterial invasion leading to a wet, foul-smelling appearance). Necrosis: What Is Necrosis? Types & Causes further clarifies that gangrenous necrosis involves black, rotting skin. Is it gangrene?-Gangrene - Symptoms & causes - Mayo Clinic adds that skin color changes can range from pale gray to blue, purple, black, bronze, showing the severity of the condition.
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Necrotizing Skin Infections: These infections can lead to the death of skin tissue and result in black areas. Necrotizing Skin Infections - Merck Manual Consumer Version notes that the affected skin turns black (gangrene) and sometimes produces gas.
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Eschar: This is necrotic tissue that develops on severe wounds, appearing dry, black, firm, and often adhering to the wound. Eschar: What It Is, Causes, Treatment, and More | Osmosis details this further.
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Post-mortem Changes: After death, the skin may darken, particularly if embalming is not performed or there's a delay between death and discovery. ELI5: Why does necrotic tissue turns black, when the skin of recently ... discusses this phenomenon.
Important Note
Blackened skin is a serious sign requiring immediate medical attention. It signifies tissue death and potentially life-threatening conditions. Do not attempt self-treatment; seek professional medical help immediately.
