Overview

Gangrene is a condition that occurs when your body tissue dies. This can happen when the blood flow to an area of the body is disrupted. Often, gangrene is the result of an injury or an infection of the skin and soft tissue.

Gangrene typically affects the toes, fingers, and limbs. It can also affect your muscles or organs, but this isn’t as common. This condition is generally characterized by discolored skin, feelings of numbness, and unusual formation of discharge or pus.

If you develop gangrene, you should seek immediate medical attention. Urgent care is needed to remove the dead tissue and prevent the bacteria from spreading through your bloodstream. If left untreated, gangrene can lead to a life-threatening infection.