Definition of Necrosis: Necrosis refers to the death of cells or tissues in a living organism, typically caused by factors such as disease, injury, or lack of blood supply. It is a form of cell injury which results in the premature death of cells in living tissue by autolysis. Necrosis is often associated with inflammation and can lead to various health complications. It contrasts with apoptosis, which is a regulated and controlled process of cell death.
Etymology and Origin: The word ‘necrosis’ comes from the Greek ‘nekrosis’, meaning ‘a becoming dead, a killing, a putting to death’. It is derived from ‘nekros‘, meaning ‘dead body’. The term has been used in medical contexts since the 17th century to describe the pathological process of cellular death due to disease or injury.
