Atrophic

Describing the wasting away or shrinking of a body part or tissue, often due to disease, injury, or lack of use. It can apply to muscles, organs, bones, or any part of the body that undergoes a reduction in size or function. This process is typically irreversible or difficult to reverse and often involves a loss of cells or a decrease in cell size. Atrophy indicates a decline in health or functionality and can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions, including aging, malnutrition, or neurological disorders. It is the result of a breakdown of cells or reduced cell growth and function. It highlights the body's inability to maintain its normal state, and often leads to weakness or impairment.

Atrophic meaning with examples

• Following a prolonged period of immobilization after a broken leg, the patient experienced significant atrophic changes in the muscles of the affected limb. The physical therapist prescribed a series of exercises to help rebuild muscle mass and regain strength, but some atrophy was irreversible, indicating the severity of the inactivity.
• The surgeon noted atrophic changes in the patient's brain scans, suggesting the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This was coupled with cognitive decline and memory loss, reflecting the impact of the disease on the brain's function and the irreversible shrinking of brain tissue caused by the illness.
• The chronic malnutrition suffered by the child caused atrophic changes to his liver, impairing its ability to function. Consequently, he also suffered from several diseases that he was not able to fight due to this deficiency. The parents sought proper medical attention and a balanced diet to help improve the patient's health.
• Years of steroid use led to atrophic skin, making it fragile and susceptible to easy bruising. Doctors warned the patient, but they ignored the side effects. The patient's reduced collagen production and thinning of the skin were clear signs of the damage done by the medications and lifestyle.
• The spinal cord injury resulted in muscle atrophy in the lower extremities, making it challenging for the patient to walk. The medical team worked to provide the best course of treatment, including physical therapy and specialized equipment to help maintain some range of motion. However, full recovery was unlikely.