What does the term "necrotic" refer to?

• A. Healthy cells or tissue
• B. Cells or tissue that are injured but living
• C. Cells or tissue that have died
• D. Cells that are inflamed

Answer: (C)

The term "necrotic" specifically refers to cells or tissue that have died due to injury, disease, or lack of blood supply. This condition arises when the cells undergo irreversible damage, leading to cell death and the breakdown of tissue. Necrosis can result from various factors, including infection, toxins, insufficient blood flow (ischemia), or trauma, and it often leads to inflammation and the body's attempt to clear away the dead tissue.

In contrast, healthy cells or tissue represent normal, functioning structures; injured but living cells or tissue are those still viable but not functioning optimally; and inflamed cells are typically associated with the body's response to infection or injury but do not necessarily signify cell death. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in fields like surgery and medicine, where the health of tissue can greatly influence treatment decisions and outcomes.