Necrobiosis

Necrobiosis is a term used in pathology to refer to the death of cells which occurs as a part of the natural life cycle of an organism. This process is distinct from necrosis, which is a form of cell death that results from injury or disease. Necrobiosis is a normal physiological process that is essential for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis.

Types of Necrobiosis

There are several types of necrobiosis, including:

• Necrobiosis lipoidica: This is a rare skin disorder that typically affects the lower legs. It is characterized by shiny, red-brown patches that may become ulcerated and scarred over time. The exact cause of necrobiosis lipoidica is unknown, but it is often associated with diabetes mellitus.

• Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum: This is a specific form of necrobiosis lipoidica that occurs in people with diabetes. It is more common in women than in men, and typically develops in young adults.

• Granuloma annulare: This is a skin condition characterized by raised, red or skin-colored bumps that form ring-shaped patterns. These bumps are caused by inflammation in the deeper layers of the skin, which is thought to be a form of necrobiosis.

Symptoms

The symptoms of necrobiosis depend on the specific type of the condition. In general, however, they may include:

• Red, brown, or yellow patches on the skin
• Skin that is shiny and may appear thinned or atrophied
• Lesions that may become ulcerated or scarred
• Itching or pain in the affected area

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of necrobiosis is typically made based on the appearance of the skin lesions. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for necrobiosis depends on the specific type of the condition and the severity of the symptoms. Options may include:

• Topical corticosteroids
• Phototherapy
• Laser therapy
• Surgical removal of lesions

See also

• Cell death
• Apoptosis
• Necrosis

Necrobiosis Resources
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