MORTIFICATION
.—This state, in a PHYSICAL sense, with either MAN or BEAST, is the total cessation of vital heat in any part of the body or extremities, which then becomes, insensible, and is followed by putrefaction. When a mortification arises from some external injury done to the part, it is not preceded by a gangrene, but is produced by an absolute stagnation of the blood and juices, and all the injured parts become insensible and putrid at the same time, without any previous inflammation. A mortification arising from some internal cause, or a deficiency of natural heat, comes on in the same manner, but is more tardy in its progress, although it exhibits similar appearances; but the nature of the disease may be readily discovered. When an external injury is the cause, if an incision is made early in the diseased part, it will be found insensible, and nothing but extravasated blood will be discharged. In all cases of MORTIFICATION, the disease, with its concomitant symptoms, proceeds with a rapidity that sets every medical interposition and exertion at defiance, till DEATH closes the scene.