n. a pathological condition marked by a proliferation of astrocytes, which are neuroglial cells with fibrous processes (see neuroglia). The astrocytes spread into the tissues inherent in the central nervous system. There, the normal neurons have died due to lack of oxygen or glucose, perhaps during episodes of hypoxia or hypoglycemia.
ASTROCYTOSIS: “Astrocytosis describes a condition in which normal neuroglial cells have died, and a proliferation of astrocytes take their place.”