WordNet
n. (pathology) a deadly form of gangrene usually caused by Clostridium bacteria that produce toxins that cause tissue death; can be used as a bioweapon [syn: clostridial myonecrosis, emphysematous gangrene, emphysematous phlegmon, gangrenous emphysema, gas phlegmon, progressive emphysematous necrosis]
Wikipedia
Gas gangrene (also known as clostridial myonecrosis and myonecrosis) is a bacterial infection that produces gas in tissues in gangrene. This deadly form of gangrene usually is caused by Clostridium perfringens bacteria. It is a medical emergency. About 1000 cases of gas gangrene occur yearly in the United States.
Myonecrosis is a condition of necrotic damage, specific to muscle tissue. It is often seen in infections with C. perfringens or any of myriad soil-borne anaerobic bacteria. Bacteria cause myonecrosis by specific exotoxins. These microorganisms are opportunistic and, in general, enter the body through significant skin breakage. Gangrenous infection by soil-borne bacteria was common in the combat injuries of soldiers well into the 20th century, because of nonsterile field surgery and the basic nature of care for severe projectile wounds.
Other causes of myonecrosis include envenomation by snakes of the Bothrops genus (family Viperidae), ischemic necrosis, caused by vascular blockage (e.g., diabetes type II), tumours that block or hoard blood supply, and disseminated intravascular coagulation or other thromboses.
Usage examples of "gas gangrene".
The earth above them was poisoned by the spores of gas gangrene, a horse disease implanted by the copious manure used by farmers.
It might interest you to know that a close relative of the bacterium that makes canned soup go bad is responsible for gas gangrene.
This many hours after death, Gary Wechlas's corpse ought to be teeming with Clostridium welch, which is associated with gas gangrene.