Dictionary

neck, stiff See torticollis.

necropsy See autopsy.

necrosis The death of living cells or tissues. Necrosis can be due, for example, to lack of blood flow (ischemia). From the Greek nekros, meaning “dead body.”

necrosis, coagulation Tissue death that is due to clots in the bloodstream blocking the flow of blood to the affected area.

necrosis, gangrenous Tissue death that is due to the combined effects of blood-flow stoppage and bacterial infection.

necrotic Dead. For example, necrotic tissue is dead tissue.

necrotizing fasciitis Severe bacterial infection of the fascia, the tissues that line and separate muscles, that causes extensive tissue death. Necrotizing fasciitis can be caused by several different types of bacteria, particularly by virulent strains of streptococcus and staphylococcus. The rapid spread and destruction of tissue occurs because of substances produced by the bacteria. Treatment…

needle aspiration, fine See fine needle aspiration.

needle biopsy, stereotactic See biopsy, stereotactic needle.

neglect, child See child abuse.

Neisseria A group of bacteria that includes the bacterium that causes gonorrhea.

nematode A parasitic roundworm.