What term describes the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood supply?

The correct answer is gangrene, which specifically refers to the death of body tissue due to a lack of blood supply, typically due to infection, injury, or underlying health conditions. Gangrene often occurs in extremities such as fingers or toes and can lead to further complications, including the need for amputation if not addressed promptly.

The other terms each refer to related but distinct concepts. Necrosis is a general term for the death of cells or tissues and can occur for various reasons, not solely due to blood supply issues. Ischemia refers to a reduced blood flow to tissues, which can eventually lead to necrosis or gangrene but does not necessarily indicate that tissue death has occurred. Infarction specifically refers to the death of tissue due to a lack of blood supply, usually because of an obstruction, and while it leads to tissue death, the term doesn’t encompass the broader implications associated with gangrene, which often includes infection and affects the surrounding tissue.