Pyroptosis is a programmed cell death process executed by inflammatory caspases upon initiation of canonical or non-canonical mechanisms. It is triggered by specific inflammatory caspases (caspase-1,-4,-5,-11} that are distinct from those responsible for apoptosis. Both the canonical and non-canonical pathways lead to the activation of gasdermin D (GSDMD}, which forms pores that cause cellular leakage and lysis. The resultant extracellular release of cytoplasmic components unleashes a local inflammatory cascade that can become systemic, underscoring the importance of pyroptosis’ normal function in mobilizing immune cells against pathogens. Nevertheless, pyroptosis can also contribute to inflammation-related pathology, including cancer progression and autoimmune disease.