Which condition refers to an inadequate blood supply to an organ or body part?

Ischemia is the term that denotes an inadequate blood supply to an organ or body part. This condition can result from various factors that impede blood flow, such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, or embolism, leading to potential tissue damage since blood carries essential oxygen and nutrients. When blood flow is compromised, the affected tissues may suffer from oxygen deprivation, which is crucial for cellular metabolism and survival.

In contrast, infarct refers to the area of tissue that has died due to a lack of blood supply, typically resulting from prolonged ischemia. Lethargy describes a state of sluggishness or fatigue and is not related to blood supply issues. Ligament refers to the fibrous connective tissue that connects bones to other bones, which is also unrelated to the concept of blood supply. Understanding the context of ischemia helps clarify its significance in medical scenarios involving blood flow and tissue health.