Amyotrophic

/ˌeɪmaɪoʊˈtroʊfɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or characterized by muscle wasting or atrophy, especially in reference to progressive neurological diseases.

Etymology

From amyotrophia plus the suffix '-ic' (relating to), forming an adjective to describe conditions involving muscle degeneration. Famous from the medical term 'ALS' (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).

Kelly Says

When Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with ALS, the disease became known to the world, transforming this medical term from obscure jargon into something millions of people recognize—a powerful reminder of how disease can touch anyone.

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