What are the difference between white and red infarct?

White and red infarcts are terms used to describe different types of tissue damage that occur due to insufficient blood supply (ischemia) to an organ, typically the heart or other vital organs. These terms are often used in the context of heart attacks (myocardial infarctions) but can apply to other tissues as well. Here’s a brief overview of the differences:

1. Red Infarct:
– Occurs in organs with dual blood supply or loose tissues, such as the lungs and intestines.
– Typically seen in venous occlusions or in tissues with collateral circulation.
– Blood stagnation and congestion lead to the infarcted area having a reddish appearance.
– It can be associated with hemorrhage due to the leakage of blood from damaged vessels.

2. White Infarct:
– Occurs in solid organs with end-arterial circulation, such as the heart and spleen.
– Typically seen in arterial occlusions.
– Blood supply is compromised, leading to coagulative necrosis and a pale appearance.
– There is less blood present, so hemorrhage is less likely compared to red infarcts.

Both types of infarcts are manifestations of ischemic tissue damage, but the underlying factors, appearances, and consequences differ based on the organ involved and the blood supply characteristics.