2.3 Necrosis

Eschar

Superficial epithelial necrosis ranging toward full-thickness tissue destruction
Color: brown, black
Size: mm to cm

May involve any area of skin.
Favours areas served by a terminal vessel with few collaterals.

May develop into ulcer.
Heals with atrophy or scarring.

Secondary infections possible.

May follow: venous leg ulcer, peripheral arterial occlusion, diabetic foot ulcer, deep thermal or chemical burn (3°), deep infections, tumors, autoimmune vasculitis, cryoglobulinemia and cold agglutinins
Site of entry for anthrax, rickettsial diseases (eschar)

Massive tissue destruction through: tumor outgrowing its vascular supply, infection, obstructive vascular disease, late stage Raynaud
Trauma: extensive damage
Exogenous noxious agents: chemicals (acids or bases), burns, frost bite