Histologically, atrophic tissues exhibit several distinctive features. Cells within the atrophic tissue appear smaller, and there is often a reduction in cytoplasmic volume. In some cases, the nucleus may also shrink, a condition known as pyknosis. The tissue's extracellular matrix may show changes such as increased deposits of lipofuscin, a pigment indicating cellular aging or damage. Additionally, there might be an increase in connective tissue elements due to the relative reduction in cellular components.
