A review article on gangrene
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A review article on gangrene
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Dr. Kokila Rani Sariwan, Dr. Shrikant Patel and Dr. Sucheta Ray
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: A review article on gangrene
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201910-15726
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Gangrene is a severe condition characterized by the death of body tissue due to inadequate blood supply. It can affect various parts of the body, most commonly the extremities such as limbs, fingers, and toes. The term "gangrene" has its roots in Latin and Greek, meaning putrefaction. This condition is classified into various types, including dry, wet, and gas gangrene, each with distinct characteristics and causes. The review article provides insights into gangrene from both Ayurvedic and modern medical perspectives, emphasizing the urgency of treatment due to the potential life-threatening consequences of the disease.
Types of Gangrene
Gangrene can be classified into several types, each with different underlying mechanisms and symptoms. Dry gangrene results from poor blood flow, leading to ischaemia and subsequent tissue death. Wet gangrene occurs when there is an injury or blockage that allows for bacterial infection and rapid deterioration of tissue, often resulting in sepsis. Gas gangrene is particularly notorious as it can progress rapidly due to infections from organisms like Clostridia, releasing toxins and producing gas within the tissue. Other forms include necrotizing fasciitis, Fournier gangrene, and gangrene affecting the intestines. Each type necessitates a unique treatment approach based on its specific pathophysiology.
Risk Factors and Symptoms
Several risk factors increase a person's likelihood of developing gangrene, including diabetes, arterial diseases, blood clots, and weakened immunity. Other contributing factors can be recent surgeries, injuries, burns, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and intravenous drug use. The symptoms of gangrene can escalate quickly, encompassing acute pain, skin discoloration, swelling, and a foul odor, indicative of tissue decay. The presence of serious systemic symptoms, such as fever and rapid progression of tissue damage, signifies a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
Treatment Strategies
The management of gangrene involves a multifaceted approach, encompassing both medical and surgical treatments. Medical treatment may include antibiotic therapy to address bacterial infections and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to promote healing in affected tissues. Surgical intervention is often necessary to remove necrotic tissue (debridement), and in severe cases, amputation may be required to prevent the spread of gangrene. Early diagnosis and prompt response to the symptoms are critical in improving patient outcomes, as gangrene can lead to serious complications, including systemic infections and multi-organ failure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gangrene is a critical condition that warrants immediate medical intervention due to its rapid progression and high morbidity risk. Effective management includes a combination of surgical intervention, antibiotic therapy, and supportive care. Awareness of the risk factors, early identification of symptoms, and timely treatment can significantly enhance survival rates. This review underscores the necessity for healthcare professionals to recognize and respond to gangrene swiftly to minimize its life-threatening consequences.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is gangrene and how does it occur?
Gangrene is tissue death caused by inadequate blood supply. It can occur due to various factors like arterial obstruction, diabetes, infections, and trauma, leading to loss of blood flow and subsequent necrosis.
What are the different types of gangrene?
The main types of gangrene include dry, wet, gas, and necrotizing fasciitis. Each type has distinct characteristics, causes, and urgency of treatment.
What are the symptoms of gangrene?
Symptoms of gangrene can include pain, skin discoloration, swelling, a foul odor, and tissue death. It can rapidly progress and spread to other body parts.
What risk factors contribute to the development of gangrene?
Risk factors include diabetes, blood clots, recent surgery, burn injuries, and lifestyle choices like smoking, intravenous drug use, and lower immunity.
How is gangrene diagnosed and investigated?
Diagnosis includes physical examinations, blood cultures, imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans, and tissue or fluid cultures to determine the extent of infection and tissue damage.
What are the treatment options available for gangrene?
Treatment for gangrene includes medical management, surgical debridement, bypass surgery, angioplasty, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and in severe cases, amputation may be necessary.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “A review article on gangrene”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Death:
Death refers to the irreversible cessation of all biological functions that sustain a living organism. In the context of gangrene, tissue death occurs due to insufficient blood supply, leading to serious complications if not treated promptly. The condition poses critical health risks, emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention.
2) Blood:
Blood is a vital fluid in the body that delivers necessary substances to cells, such as oxygen and nutrients, and transports waste products away. In gangrene, inadequate blood circulation leads to tissue ischemia and necrosis, making the understanding of blood flow essential in diagnosing and treating this condition.
3) Rani:
Rani, meaning 'queen' in Hindi, is a common prefix or name in India. In this context, it identifies the institution, 'Rani Dullaiya Smriti Ayurved P.G. Mahavidhyalaya,' where the authors are associated. The name adds credibility to the research by associating it with a recognized Ayurvedic institution.
4) Disease:
Diseases are pathological abnormalities or conditions that disrupt normal bodily functions. Gangrene is classified as a serious disease, stemming from underlying conditions like diabetes or vascular issues, making its recognition essential for effective treatment and prevention of further complications.
5) Kotha:
Kotha is a term from Ayurvedic texts that is associated with tissue putrefaction or necrosis. Although not extensively described, its understanding evokes parallels with gangrene. Recognizing kotha within Ayurvedic medicine provides insight into the historical context of tissue diseases and their modern equivalents in Western medicine.
6) Smriti (Smrti):
Smriti, meaning 'memory' or 'remembered,' in the context of Ayurveda, pertains to the traditional knowledge and texts that guide Ayurvedic practitioners. Terms like 'Smriti' represent a heritage of wisdom that informs contemporary practices, connecting ancient modalities to modern medicinal applications and treatment methodologies.
7) Vrana:
Vrana is an Ayurvedic term that refers to a wound or ulcer. The condition is relevant when discussing gangrene, as it can manifest as complications arising from wounds. Understanding vrana aids practitioners in recognizing the progression from a simple wound to serious conditions such as gangrene.
8) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience often associated with actual or potential tissue damage. In cases of gangrene, the presence of severe pain indicates tissue injury and complicates patient care. Identifying and managing pain are crucial elements of treatment and recovery.
9) Pur:
Poor generally denotes a lack or deficiency, commonly used in a medical context to indicate inadequate conditions, such as poor blood flow or poor health. In relation to gangrene, poor circulation can exacerbate tissue damage, leading to complications that necessitate urgent medical intervention.
10) Dushtavrana (Dustavrana, Dusta-vrana, Dushta-vrana):
Dushta-vrana refers to a type of wound that is infected or in a state of deterioration according to Ayurvedic texts. This classification is crucial in understanding specific gangrenous conditions, particularly in diabetic patients where wounds may not heal properly, leading to serious complications.
11) Kokila:
Kokila is a name that refers to one of the authors, Dr. Kokila Rani Sariwan, and signifies her contribution to the research on gangrene. Identifying the authors in scholarly articles is important for accountability and academic integrity, linking the findings to qualified practitioners.
12) Dushta (Dusta):
Dushta means 'bad' or 'evil' in Sanskrit and is used to describe dire states of health or afflicted types of conditions. When associated with vrana, it highlights the seriousness of infections or tissue damage. Understanding dushta helps in categorizing and treating severe health conditions in Ayurveda.
13) Fever:
Fever is a common medical sign characterized by an elevated body temperature, often indicating infection or inflammation. In cases of gangrene, associated fever points towards systemic infection, which requires rapid intervention to prevent severe health ramifications or further complications.
14) Burning (Burn, Burned, Burnt):
Burn injuries can lead to severe tissue damage, rendering affected areas susceptible to gangrene due to the compromised blood supply. Understanding the relationship between burns and subsequent gangrenous development underlines the importance of immediate care and intervention to prevent infection and tissue death.
15) Shalyatantra (Salyatantra, Shalya-tantra, Shalyatamtra):
Shalya-tantra is the Ayurvedic branch of surgery and treatment of ailments involving surgical procedures. This field is relevant in managing conditions like gangrene, where surgical intervention, such as debridement, amputation, or other reconstructive surgeries, is often necessary for effective treatment.
16) Discussion:
Discussion refers to the section in research articles where findings are interpreted and contextualized. In this study on gangrene, it would highlight clinical implications, the disease's progression, treatment outcomes, and the integration of Ayurvedic principles with modern medical practices for improved healthcare approaches.
17) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are medications used to treat bacterial infections. In the context of gangrene, antibiotics play a critical role in controlling infections that arise, especially in cases like wet gangrene, where bacteria proliferate rapidly. Timely antibiotic therapy is essential for patient survival and recovery.
18) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Stri-roga refers to the branch of Ayurveda concerned with women's health. This specialization may provide insights into how conditions like gangrene could manifest differently in women and the unique considerations necessary for treatment. Recognizing Stri-roga highlights the holistic approach of Ayurveda to health.
19) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that originated in India and emphasizes balance in bodily systems through diet, herbal treatment, and yogic breathing. Its application in the understanding of conditions like gangrene provides alternative perspectives on healing and emphasizes prevention and holistic treatment.
20) Swelling:
Swelling is an abnormal enlargement of a body part due to fluid accumulation, inflammation, or injury. In gangrene, swelling often accompanies tissue damage and infection, serving as a critical diagnostic indicator. Monitoring swelling can guide treatment decisions and assess the severity of the condition.
21) Samhita:
Samhita refers to the ancient texts or collections of verses that make up Ayurvedic literature. These texts serve as critical references in understanding traditional medicinal practices and offer foundational knowledge that practitioners utilize for diagnosing and treating conditions, including gangrene.
22) Prasuti:
Prasuti refers to the branch of Ayurveda that deals with obstetrics and gynecology. Understanding this aspect highlights the interconnectedness of various medical fields and how conditions like gangrene can be approached from a woman's health perspective, particularly in reproductive health contexts.
23) Science (Scientific):
Science refers to systematic methodologies employed to understand natural phenomena, emphasizing evidence and observation. In the discussion of gangrene, integrating scientific approaches can enhance treatment efficacy and provide a deeper understanding of pathological processes influencing modern healthcare practices.
24) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in Ayurveda encompasses the methodologies, techniques, and principles underlying treatment practices. Understanding each tantra provides insight into specialized approaches to conditions like gangrene, allowing practitioners to choose the most effective treatment modalities based on a patient’s unique case.
25) Shalya (Salya):
Shalya translates to 'surgery' in Ayurveda, signifying practical approaches taken to address bodily ailments. In the case of gangrene, shalya includes surgical interventions necessary for treating affected tissues, underlining the need for skilled surgical care to manage severe health risks associated with the condition.
26) Animal:
Animal-related injuries can lead to infections that may develop into gangrene. Understanding zoonotic transmissions or bites emphasizes the importance of addressing animal-related health risks in treatment protocols. Proper care and monitoring will alleviate the risk of severe complications from such injuries.
27) Pitta:
Pitta is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda, representing the qualities of heat and transformation. In the context of gangrene, imbalances involving pitta can lead to inflammatory responses exacerbating tissue necrosis, underlining the importance of dosha balance in holistic health practices.
28) Karma (Karman):
Karma refers to the actions and the subsequent consequences of those actions in holistic medicine. In the context of Ayurvedic practice, karma may relate to how lifestyle choices influence the development of conditions like gangrene, emphasizing the need for preventative measures in patient care.
29) Patel:
Patel is a common surname in India and identifies Dr. Shrikant Patel, one of the contributors to the article. The author's affiliation plays an essential role in establishing credibility and authority in medical research, enhancing the reliability of the findings presented in the study.
30) Sugar:
Sugar, particularly referring to blood sugar levels, is crucial in understanding diabetic conditions that significantly impact the development of gangrene. Poorly managed diabetes often results in elevated blood sugar, creating an environment conducive to infections and gangrenous complications.
31) Pulse:
Pulse refers to the rate of heartbeat as felt through the arteries. In gangrene assessment, irregularities in pulse can indicate compromised blood circulation to the affected area, which assists in diagnosing the severity of tissue damage and guiding necessary medical interventions.
32) Drug:
A drug is a substance used for medical treatment, prevention, or diagnosis of a disease. In the management of gangrene, various drugs can be employed, including antibiotics to control infection, pain relievers, and medications that improve circulation and tissue healing, playing a crucial role in recovery.
33) Roga:
Roga translates to 'disease' in Sanskrit and pertains to various disorders addressed in Ayurvedic medicine. Recognizing roga in discussions of gangrene emphasizes the importance of evaluating patient conditions holistically, considering multiple factors contributing to the disease process for optimal treatment outcomes.
34) Noma:
Noma is a severe necrotizing fasciitis primarily affecting the face and mouth, primarily seen in malnourished children. Its link to gangrene underscores the importance of recognizing various forms of tissue destruction, requiring distinct preventive and therapeutic measures to combat severe infections effectively.
35) Sign:
Sign refers to an observable condition or characteristic that indicates the presence of a disease. In gangrene, signs like discoloration, swelling, and foul odor are critical for diagnosing the condition. Proper recognition of signs ensures timely intervention, which is vital for patient survival.
36) Life:
Life refers to the condition that distinguishes animals and plants from inorganic matter, characterized by biological processes. In the context of gangrene, the preservation of life hinges on understanding disease progression, early recognition, and timely intervention to prevent the potentially fatal consequences of tissue death.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘A review article on gangrene’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Chronic condition, Dry gangrene, Surgical Procedure, Wet gangrene, Necrotizing fasciitis, Fournier gangrene, Gangrene, Gas Gangrene.