What is an uncommon type of necrosis that occurs in the brain?

Liquefactive necrosis is characterized by the transformation of tissue into a liquid viscous mass, often seen in the brain due to its high lipid content and the presence of numerous macrophages that contribute to the process. This type of necrosis typically occurs in response to infections, particularly bacterial ones, where neutrophils release enzymes that liquefy the tissue. In the central nervous system, this can lead to the formation of abscesses; for example, in cases of bacterial meningitis or a brain abscess, the affected area becomes soft and liquid.

Coagulative necrosis is more common in solid organs like the heart and kidneys and involves the preservation of the basic tissue architecture despite cell death. Caseous necrosis, which is associated with tuberculosis, leads to a cheese-like appearance but is not typical for brain tissue. Fibrinoid necrosis affects the vascular wall and is not directly associated with the brain. Therefore, liquefactive necrosis stands out as the uncommon yet significant pattern of necrosis specifically pertinent to brain pathology.