Ischemic damage typically progresses through several stages:
Reversible Injury: In the initial stages, ischemia can cause reversible damage characterized by cell swelling, reduced ATP production, and accumulation of lactic acid. Irreversible Injury: Prolonged ischemia leads to irreversible injury, marked by severe mitochondrial dysfunction, extensive membrane damage, and cell death. Necrosis: This is the end-stage of irreversible injury where cells undergo necrosis, characterized by the loss of cellular integrity and the release of intracellular contents, triggering an inflammatory response.
