liquefactive necrosis
Liquefactive necrosis is a type of tissue death characterized by the transformation of affected tissue into a liquid viscous mass. This process often occurs in the brain due to the high fat content of neural tissue, but it can also result from bacterial infections that lead to the formation of pus. The liquefaction is primarily caused by the action of enzymes that break down cellular structures.
This form of necrosis is commonly associated with conditions such as cerebral infarction or bacterial abscesses. In these cases, the body’s immune response leads to the accumulation of white blood cells, which release enzymes that digest the tissue. The resulting fluid can create cavities in the affected area, impacting surrounding structures and functions.