Under various circumstances and as the result of many different causes the condition known as atrophy may take place[1]. It is the shrinkage or wasting away of tissues, and may take place in any part of the body. The brain, heart, liver, nerves, spinal cord and various organs, and the bones and skin and muscles are all subject to atrophy. The condition and the means taken to prevent it or overcome it are fully considered in the articles treating of the diseases of the various organs and tissues which may be thus affected.[1] Atrophy is not necessarily a pathological condition - it occurs naturally with aging in, for example, the thymus, tonsils and skeletal muscle.
Excerpts from J. H. Greer's "A Physician in the House: for family and individual consultation", published in 1897. Annotations provided throughout. This is not medical advice - if you're sick, see a doctor.