Cellular Atrophy Concepts

Questions and Answers

What is atrophy primarily caused by?

Enhanced blood flow

Increased work demands on the cell

Increased nutritional intake

Decreased work demands on the cell (correct)

Disuse atrophy can occur in muscles that are immobilized for an extended period.

True

List one cause of atrophy.

Disuse, denervation, endocrine hypo-function, inadequate nutrition, ischemia

Atrophy may lead to a decrease in both the size and number of __________.

<p>cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the type of atrophy to its example:

<p>Disuse atrophy = Muscle shrinks in an immobilized limb Denervation atrophy = Muscle shrinks in a paralyzed limb Endocrine atrophy = Reproductive organs decrease in size post-menopause</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Atrophy Overview

Atrophy involves a decrease in cell size and number due to reduced work demands.
The body strives for efficiency, leading to decreased cellular function and energy conservation when tasks diminish.

Cellular Changes

Atrophied cells consume less oxygen.
Organelles within atrophied cells decrease in size and number, reflecting overall reduced cellular activity.

Causes of Atrophy

Disuse: Occurs when muscles are not engaged, such as in immobilization due to fractures.
Denervation: Muscle shrinkage follows paralysis, leading to loss of function.
Endocrine hypo-function: Hormonal deficiencies, like reduced estrogen in postmenopausal women, cause organ shrinkage (notably ovaries).
Inadequate nutrition: Lack of essential nutrients leads to cell shrinkage, comparable to withholding water and fertilizer from a plant.
Ischemia: Insufficient blood supply affects cellular health and maintenance, leading to atrophy.

Examples of Atrophy

Disuse atrophy: Notable in limbs immobilized in casts for extended periods.
Denervation atrophy: Observed in muscles of paralyzed limbs.
Endocrine-related atrophy: Seen in reproductive organs of postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes and reduced blood flow.

Description

This quiz explores the concept of cellular atrophy, including its causes and effects on cell size and function. Key processes such as decreased work demands, disuse, and nutritional factors will be discussed. Test your understanding of how the body conserves energy and resources through cellular adaptations.