Diagnosis of gangrene is based on a combination of
- physical examination
- medical history
- clinical tests
Your GP will want to know if you have any chronic health conditions and whether you have experienced any injuries that could have caused the condition.
They will also examine the affected area of your body to check for any obvious signs of gangrene, such as a strong smell or strange colour of the skin.
Clinical tests can be carried out to confirm the gangrene diagnosis. They are:
- Blood tests. An increase in the number of white blood cells can indicate infection.
- Fluid or tissue culture. A small sample of fluid or tissue from the affected area can be tested for bacteria. The test is also useful for determining the most effective type of antibiotic to treat infection.
- Imaging tests. A range of imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans or CT scans (where a series of X-rays are taken, to build up a three-dimensional picture of your body), can be used to confirm the presence, and spread, of gangrene. These tests can also be used to study the blood vessels, so that any blockages can be identified.
- Surgery. A surgical examination may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis of internal or gas gangrene.
