atrophy

(a′trŏ-fē )

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[ ¹an- + -trophy ]

1. A decrease in size of an organ or tissue; wasting. Atrophy may result from death and resorption of cells, diminished cellular proliferation, pressure, ischemia, malnutrition, decreased activity, or hormonal changes.
2. To degenerate; lose size, strength, or vitality.
atrophic (ā″trō′fik )

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(ā″trof′ik), adj.

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