|  | Cancer | Other Cancers

Dysplasia Definition

Medical terminology refers to a specific process based on the Greek or Latin from which the word is derived. Dysplasia, which comes from Greek words meaning "bad formation or shape," is an abnormality within the cells of tissue that affects growth, development and function.

  1. Dysplasia

    • Dysplasia refers specifically to malformed cells that mutated as they matured within tissue. It usually means that there is an abnormally large number of immature cells expanding into areas usually occupied by mature cells.

      Dysplasia is characterized in most cases by unequally sized cells, abnormally shaped cells, hyperchromatism (a tendency of malignant cells to stain darkly when tested) and a number of dividing cells that is larger than normal.

    Cervical Dysplasia

    • An abnormal Pap smear is effective in detecting cervical dysplasia, which is the appearance of abnormal cell activity on the surface of the cervix. Although cervical dysplasia is not itself an indicator of bad health, it is usually considered a precancerous condition and should be monitored and discussed with a doctor.

    Fibrous Dysplasia

    • Fibrous dysplasia is defined by the Mayo Clinic as a disorder in which fibrous tissue develops in place of bone in infants. As the tissue expands, the bone can become deformed and is more susceptible to fracture. Cases of fibrous dysplasia can go undetected for years, until pain or malformation becomes an issue.

    Considerations

    • Dysplasia, either fibrous or cervical, is indicative of serious health issues, and any evidence of dysplasia should be discussed with a qualified health specialist. Treatment and preventive actions can be taken regarding dysplasia, including regular testing for further complications and the relief of symptoms with medication.

    Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

    • Hip dysplasia in dogs is a debilitating genetic disorder that can lead to numerous health complications as a result of the progression of arthritis due to age. Damaged cartilage of the hip can also lead to hip dysplasia. It is hard to predict how much a dog will be affected by dysplasia of the hip, and any dog that has the condition should be monitored carefully.

Other Cancers - Related Articles