Dictionary > Atrophy

Atrophy

Atrophy
(Science: pathology) a wasting Away, a diminution in the size of a cell, tissue, organ or part.
Origin: L., gr. Atrophia
a decrease in size of an organ caused by disease or disuse.Any weakening or degeneration (especially through lack of use).Undergo atrophy; Muscles that are not used will atrophy.The reduction in size of tissue or organ, possibly after disease. For example when breaking an arm, the arm is temporarily put in a cast for the bone to heal in position. In light of this, many of the muscles in the arm lay unused for a period of time, and begin to waste away due to their redundancy.


You will also like...

Chromosome Mutations
Chromosome Mutations

Mutations can also influence the phenotype of an organism. This tutorial looks at the effects of chromosomal mutations, ..

green leaf - close up view
Leaves

Leaves are the major photosynthetic organ of a plant. Apart from that, they are also crucial to water movement. In this ..

takahē
Takahē (Porphyrio hochstetteri)

Meet the colorful takahē, an extremely rare flightless bird. Find out more about its unique features and why they matte..

Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets
Genetics – Lesson Outline & Worksheets

  Topics Modules Quizzes/Worksheets Description Introduction to Genetics Genetics – Definition: Heredity and ..

Biological Cell schematic diagram
Biological Cell Introduction

It only takes one biological cell to create an organism. A single cell is able to keep itself functional through its 'mi..

Still Water Community Plants
Still Water Community Plants

This tutorial looks at the adaptations of freshwater plants for them to thrive in still water habitats. Familiarize your..