Which type of necrosis is caused by alkali substances?

Liquefactive necrosis occurs when tissues are transformed into a liquid viscous mass. This type of necrosis is commonly associated with the effects of certain chemical substances, particularly alkali solutions. When alkali substances come into contact with tissues, they can cause saponification, which leads to the breakdown of cellular structures and results in the release of cellular contents into a liquid form.

This process is particularly evident in the case of alkaline burns, where the necrotic tissue becomes liquefied and may produce a thick, creamy exudate. This is in contrast to other types of necrosis, such as coagulative necrosis, which typically retains the architecture of the tissue due to protein denaturation and is often seen in cases of ischemia. Fat necrosis is associated with damage to adipose tissue, particularly in the context of pancreatitis or trauma, while dry necrosis—which is less commonly classified—refers to the loss of blood supply leading to desiccation of the tissue.

Therefore, liquefactive necrosis is the correct response when discussing the necrotic process induced by alkali substances, as it involves the transformation of the affected tissue into a liquid state.