Which term describes wasting away of tissue due to disuse?

Which term describes wasting away of tissue due to disuse?

• A. Atrophy
• B. Arthritis
• C. Acidosis
• D. Alkalosis

Answer: (A)

Wasting away of tissue from lack of use is called atrophy. When tissues, especially muscles, aren’t used, they shrink because the body reduces the size of the cells and the overall tissue to save energy. This disuse atrophy leads to smaller muscles and weaker strength after periods of immobilization, casting, or extended bed rest. In contrast, arthritis is inflammation of the joints, acidosis is an excess of acidity in body fluids, and alkalosis is an excess of alkalinity—none of these describe tissue shrinking due to not using the tissue.

Wasting away of tissue from lack of use is called atrophy. When tissues, especially muscles, aren’t used, they shrink because the body reduces the size of the cells and the overall tissue to save energy. This disuse atrophy leads to smaller muscles and weaker strength after periods of immobilization, casting, or extended bed rest. In contrast, arthritis is inflammation of the joints, acidosis is an excess of acidity in body fluids, and alkalosis is an excess of alkalinity—none of these describe tissue shrinking due to not using the tissue.