What happens in liquefactive necrosis?

Liquefactive necrosis is characterized by the enzymatic breakdown of tissue, leading to the transformation of the affected area into a liquid or semi-liquid state. This process typically occurs in response to certain types of infections or injuries, particularly those involving the central nervous system or bacterial infections, where inflammatory cells release enzymes that dissolve tissue.

In liquefactive necrosis, the necrotic tissue essentially turns into pus, which consists of dead cells, bacteria, and fluid. This process contrasts with types of necrosis, such as coagulative necrosis, where tissue remains more intact and firm. The production of this liquefied material signifies a significant cellular breakdown and the body's immune response to injury or infection. Thus, the correct understanding of liquefactive necrosis is directly related to the necrotic area becoming fluid or liquefied, setting it apart from other forms of necrosis that preserve structural integrity or involve different cellular outcomes.