From the Greek wor eschara (scab) an eschar (IPA: /ˈɛskɑr/) is a piece of dead tissue that is cast off from the surface of the skin, particularly after a burn injury, but also seen in gangrene, ulcer, fungal infections, necrotizing spider bite wounds, and late exposure to anthrax. Eschar is sometimes called a "black wound" because the wound is covered with thick, dry, black necrotic tissue.