Cell Adaptations and Injury

These flashcards cover key concepts related to cell adaptations, including atrophy, metaplasia, types of injuries, and their implications on health.

What is atrophy in the context of cell adaptation?

Atrophy is a decrease in the size of an organ or tissue resulting from a decrease in the size or number of cells.

Give an example of physiological atrophy.

An example of physiological atrophy is the decrease in the size of the uterus following childbirth.

What common causes of pathological atrophy are mentioned?

Common causes of pathological atrophy include lack of use, nerve damage, poor nutrition, and loss of endocrine stimulation.

What is merasmus?

Merasmus is a condition of profound protein malnutrition that affects tissue mass, especially skeletal muscle.

What is cachexia and why is it significant in clinical settings?

Cachexia is defined as severe weight loss and anorexia, often seen in cancer patients, affecting their overall health and treatment outcomes.

How does menopause relate to tissue atrophy?

Menopause leads to a decline in hormone levels, especially estradiol, which can result in the atrophy of reproductive organs and breast tissue.

What is metaplasia?

Metaplasia is a reversible change where one type of mature differentiated cell is replaced by another type in response to an injurious stimulus.

What is an example of metaplasia resulting from smoking?

In smokers, the normal columnar epithelium of the bronchial airways may be replaced by squamous epithelium.

What is the 'two hit hypothesis' related to metaplastic changes?

The 'two hit hypothesis' suggests that ongoing insults to metaplastic cells can increase the risk of these cells undergoing malignant transformation.

What is hypoxia?

Hypoxia is a condition characterized by reduced oxygen tension, which can lead to reduced ATP production in cells.

What is ischemia?

Ischemia is a reduction in blood flow, resulting in decreased oxygen delivery to tissues.

Why can excessive glucose or water be harmful to cells?

Excessive glucose or water can cause damage by disrupting osmotic balance and leading to cellular injury.

What is reversible cell injury?

Reversible cell injury is the initial stage of cell damage where function is impaired but can potentially return to normal if the injurious stimulus is removed.

What are biochemical alterations associated with irreversible cell injury?

Biochemical alterations include changes in ATP production, disruption of ionic balance, and changes in organelle structure.

What is the significance of detecting biochemical changes in cells?

Early detection of biochemical changes allows for timely interventions which can lead to better clinical outcomes.

What common nutritional deficiency can lead to rickets in children?

Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets, causing weak bones that curve under pressure.

What impact does age have on brain structure, specifically relating to atrophy?

Aging can cause brain atrophy, characterized by increased space between folds (sulci and gyri) of the cerebral cortex.

What are the implications of diminished blood supply on tissue health?

Diminished blood supply leads to tissue atrophy due to reduced oxygen and nutrient delivery, impairing metabolism.