iskemiin

Iskemiin is the Finnish term used to describe ischemia, a condition in which tissue receives insufficient blood flow to meet its metabolic needs. Ischemia may be local or systemic, transient or persistent, and it can affect any organ. If blood supply remains restricted for a long period, the tissue may suffer irreversible damage or infarction. The concept distinguishes reduced perfusion from completed tissue death.

Common forms include cerebral ischemia (which can cause stroke or transient ischemic attack), myocardial ischemia (angina or heart attack), intestinal ischemia, and peripheral limb ischemia. Causes include obstruction of arteries by atherosclerotic plaques, thromboembolism, vasospasm, or systemic hypotension; risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and aging.

Pathophysiology involves reduced oxygen delivery, leading to ATP depletion, failure of ion pumps, acidosis, and potential cell death. Reperfusion after ischemia can cause additional injury through oxidative stress. Diagnosis relies on clinical presentation supported by imaging and laboratory tests appropriate to the affected organ (for example, ECG and cardiac biomarkers for cardiac ischemia; CT or MRI for cerebral ischemia). Treatment aims to restore blood flow promptly when possible and to address underlying causes and risk factors, including antithrombotic therapy, revascularization, and hemodynamic support. Prognosis varies with location, duration, and the success of reperfusion.