Dystrophy Dystrophy is a poorly defined term. Ethymology meaning is: feeding trouble and its consequences. It is an abnormality of the cell growth, which is distinct from metaplastic phenomenon and dysplasia. It consists of slight and limited morphological abnormalities, thought to be of inflammatory or hormonal origin. These abnormalities must be considered according to the context in which they are observed (metaplasia of ectopy, atrophy, treatment, irritative conditions, infections).