What does atrophy mean?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the definition of the term 'atrophy'. It seeks to clarify the meaning of this word, particularly in a biological or medical context where it usually refers to a reduction in size or wasting away of a body part or tissue.
Answer
Decrease in size or wasting away of body parts or tissues.
Atrophy refers to the decrease in size or wasting away of a body part, organ, or tissue. This can occur due to disuse, disease, or a lack of nutrition.
Answer for screen readers
Atrophy refers to the decrease in size or wasting away of a body part, organ, or tissue. This can occur due to disuse, disease, or a lack of nutrition.
More Information
Atrophy can occur in various body parts, including muscles and organs, often resulting from disuse or lack of movement, certain diseases, or nutritional deficiencies.
Tips
A common mistake is to confuse atrophy with hypertrophy, which is the enlargement of an organ or tissue due to an increase in cell size.
Sources
- Atrophy Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster - merriam-webster.com
- Atrophy | Definition, Types, & Effects - Britannica - britannica.com
- ATROPHY Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com - dictionary.com
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