Degeneration
Degeneration
Degeneration (/dɪˌdʒɛnəˈreɪʃən/) is a medical term that refers to the process of deterioration or decline in the structure or function of an organ or tissue in the body due to aging or disease. The term is derived from the Latin word 'degenerare', which means 'to decline from an ancestral quality'.
Types of Degeneration
There are several types of degeneration, including:
- Neurodegeneration: This refers to the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including death of neurons. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Huntington's disease are incurable and debilitating conditions that result in progressive degeneration and/or death of nerve cells.
- Macular degeneration: This is a medical condition which may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field. It is a major cause of visual impairment in older adults (>50 years).
- Disc degeneration: This refers to the natural breakdown of an intervertebral disc of the spine. Despite its name, disc degeneration is not a disease but a normal part of aging.
Causes
Degeneration can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, injury, disease, and lifestyle choices such as smoking or lack of exercise. Certain genetic conditions can also lead to degeneration.
Treatment
Treatment for degeneration depends on the type and cause of the degeneration. It may include medication, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Degeneration
- Wikipedia's article - Degeneration
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