cryonecrosis

Cryonecrosis is a medical term describing tissue death caused by extreme cold. It is essentially the same process as frostbite, but the term "cryonecrosis" emphasizes the resulting cellular and tissue death. When tissues are exposed to sufficiently low temperatures, ice crystals can form within and between cells. These ice crystals can puncture cell membranes, leading to cellular damage and death. Furthermore, the formation of ice crystals causes dehydration of cells as water moves out to form ice, concentrating intracellular solutes and further disrupting cellular function.

The reduced blood flow to the affected area due to vasoconstriction and subsequent thrombosis also contributes to cryonecrosis. This lack of oxygen and nutrients further exacerbates tissue damage. The severity of cryonecrosis depends on factors such as the temperature, duration of exposure, and the ability of the body to rewarm the affected area. Symptoms can range from numbness and skin discoloration to blistering and, in severe cases, gangrene and the need for amputation. Treatment aims to rewarm the tissue carefully and prevent further damage, often involving pain management and wound care.