Gangrene can develop when the supply of blood to an area of your body is interrupted. This can occur as the result of an injury, an infection, or an underlying condition that affects your circulation.

What is the main cause of gangrene?

Gas gangrene is most commonly caused by infection with a bacterium called Clostridium perfringens. Bacteria gather in an injury or surgical wound that has no blood supply. The bacterial infection produces toxins that release gas and cause tissue death.

Can you heal gangrene?

Gangrene is usually curable in the early stages with intravenous antibiotic treatment and debridement. Without treatment, gangrene may lead to a fatal infection.