What defines necrosis?

Necrosis is defined as cell death that occurs in living tissue, typically as a result of injury, lack of blood flow, infection, or other pathological processes. It is characterized by the unregulated and accidental death of cells, leading to tissue damage and inflammation, in contrast to other forms of cell death such as apoptosis, which is a programmed and controlled process. When necrosis occurs, it often triggers inflammatory responses as the body attempts to clear out the dead and damaged cells, making it a significant aspect of various disease processes and injuries.

In this context, necrosis is crucial in understanding how cells and tissues respond to injury and the mechanisms involved in healing and disease pathophysiology. The other definitions do not accurately capture the essence of necrosis: it is certainly not associated with survival or programmed mechanisms, and it typically involves inflammation rather than a lack thereof.