Pathologic Function
muscle atrophy
mus·cle at·ro·phy [ muhs-uhl a-truh-fee ]
Subclass of:
Neuromuscular Manifestations; Atrophic
Definitions related to muscular atrophy:
  • (muscle atrophy) A process, occurring in the muscle, that is characterized by a decrease in protein content, fiber diameter, force production and fatigue resistance in response to different conditions such as starvation, aging and disuse.
    Gene Ontology Dictionary
    Gene Ontology Consortium, 2021
  • (muscle wasting) A weakening, shrinking, and loss of muscle caused by disease or lack of use. Muscle wasting decreases strength and the ability to move.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • (muscle atrophy) The loss of muscle tissue due to inactivity or disease.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Derangement in size and number of muscle fibers occurring with aging, reduction in blood supply, or following immobilization, prolonged weightlessness, malnutrition, and particularly in denervation.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.