Amyotrophy
Amyotrophy
Amyotrophy (pronounced: /ˌæmioʊˈtrəfi/) is a medical term that refers to the wasting away or loss of muscle tissue due to disease or lack of use.
Etymology
The term "Amyotrophy" is derived from the Greek words "a-" meaning "without", "myo-" meaning "muscle", and "-trophy" meaning "nourishment". Thus, it literally translates to "without muscle nourishment".
Definition
Amyotrophy is a condition characterized by the progressive wasting and weakening of muscles, usually those in the hands, forearms, and legs. It is often associated with diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), and Hirayama Disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of amyotrophy can vary depending on the underlying cause, but they generally include muscle weakness, muscle wasting, and decreased muscle tone. Other symptoms may include difficulty moving the affected limbs, muscle cramps, and twitching.
Causes
Amyotrophy can be caused by a variety of conditions, including genetic disorders, nerve diseases, and injuries. Some of the most common causes include:
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA): A genetic disorder characterized by weakness and wasting of the voluntary muscles in the arms and legs of infants and children.
- Hirayama Disease: A rare disease that causes muscle weakness and wasting in the hands and forearms, usually occurring in young males.
Treatment
Treatment for amyotrophy depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, physical therapy and exercise may help to slow the progression of muscle wasting and improve mobility. Medications may also be used to manage symptoms. In severe cases, assistive devices such as braces or wheelchairs may be needed.
Related Terms
- Atrophy: General term for the wasting away or decrease in size of an organ or tissue.
- Hypotrophy: A decrease in the size of a body part, cell, organ, or other tissue.
- Hypertrophy: The enlargement of an organ or tissue from the increase in size of its cells.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Amyotrophy
- Wikipedia's article - Amyotrophy
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