Infarkts

Infarcts are areas of tissue death that occur when blood supply to a region is blocked or severely reduced, leading to ischemia and subsequent necrosis. They can arise in nearly any organ but are most commonly described in the heart and brain, where they are known as myocardial infarction and cerebral infarction, respectively. Infarcts may also occur in the kidneys, spleen, intestines, and other tissues.

Causes of infarcts include arterial occlusion from thrombosis or embolism, rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque, or profound drops in blood flow during shock, dehydration, or other critical states. The appearance and impact of an infarct depend on the organ involved, the extent of collateral circulation, and the duration of oxygen deprivation.

Clinical presentation varies by location. Myocardial infarction commonly presents with chest pain, shortness of breath, and diaphoresis; cerebral infarction presents with sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, trouble speaking or understanding speech, and other neurological signs. Other infarcts produce symptoms related to the affected organ, such as abdominal pain in mesenteric infarction or flank pain in renal infarction.

Diagnosis combines clinical assessment with imaging and laboratory tests. For myocardial infarction, electrocardiography and cardiac biomarkers (like troponin) are central; cerebral infarction is diagnosed with brain imaging (CT or MRI) and neurological evaluation.

Treatment aims to restore blood flow and limit tissue damage. Reperfusion therapy, such as percutaneous coronary intervention or thrombolysis, is used for heart-related infarcts, alongside antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy and supportive care. Prevention focuses on managing cardiovascular risk factors and maintaining adequate organ perfusion. Prognosis depends on infarct size, location, and the timeliness of treatment.