Final Exam Pathophysiology Related

Review Final Exam Pathophysiology related questions and content

During childhood, the thymus decreases in size, and this is referred to as ______ atrophy.

  • A. Physiologic
  • B. Pathologic
  • C. Disuse
  • D. Neurogenic
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'Physiologic.' Physiologic atrophy is a normal part of development, like the reduction in thymus size during childhood. Pathologic atrophy (choice B) refers to tissue wasting due to disease, not a normal process like the reduction in thymus size. Disuse atrophy (choice C) results from a lack of physical activity or stimulation, which is not the case with thymus size reduction. Neurogenic atrophy (choice D) is caused by damage to or diseases of the nerves supplying the muscles, not related to the thymus size reduction seen in childhood.