InfarctionRadlex concept

Formation of an infarct, which is necrosis in tissue due to local ischemia resulting from obstruction of blood circulation, most commonly by a thrombus or embolus. [MeSH] Pathology.—Infarction is a process that may result in ischemic necrosis, usually the consequence of vascular compromise such as occlusion of a feeding pulmonary artery by an embolus (venous infarction is rare but recognized). Necrosis is relatively uncommon because tissue viability is maintained by the bronchial arterial blood supply. Pulmonary infarction may be secondary to a vasculitis (eg, Wegener granulomatosis). Radiographs and CT scans.—A pulmonary infarct is typically triangular or dome-shaped, with the base abutting the pleura and the apex directed toward the hilum (Fig 27). The opacity represents local hemorrhage with or without central tissue necrosis (67,68). [Fleischner Society]