METAPLASIA Meaning and
Definition
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Metaplasia is a term used in biology and medicine to describe a process where one type of differentiated tissue is transformed into another type. It is a reversible cellular adaptation that occurs as a response to chronic injury, irritation, or inflammation. This cellular transformation is often seen as a protective mechanism by the body to mitigate the effects of ongoing damage.
During metaplasia, the specialized cells in an affected tissue are replaced by a different type of cells that are better able to withstand the adverse conditions. This alteration can occur in various organs and tissues throughout the body, such as the respiratory, gastrointestinal, or urinary system.
The process of metaplasia involves reprogramming of stem cells or undifferentiated cells, which have the ability to differentiate into multiple cell types. These cells start differentiating into a specific cell lineage that is more suited to the altered environment. For example, in the case of respiratory metaplasia, the normal ciliated columnar cells of the respiratory tract may transform into squamous cells, which are better able to withstand chronic exposure to irritants.
Metaplasia is often associated with an increased risk of developing premalignant or malignant conditions, as the transformed cells may have altered growth patterns and increased susceptibility to genetic mutations. It can be detected through various medical imaging techniques such as endoscopy or microscopy.
Overall, metaplasia is a cellular adaptation that enables tissues to withstand prolonged harmful conditions. However, it also signifies a potential disruption in the normal tissue structure and function, warranting medical attention and further investigation.
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1. The transformation of one tissue into another, as of cartilage into bone; the production of one tissue by cells which normally produce another kind of tissue. 2. Excessive proliferation of cells which are not histologically or functionally important in an organ or tissue.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METAPLASIA
Etymology of METAPLASIA
The word metaplasia has its roots in the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek prefix meta- meaning beyond or change and the Greek noun plasis meaning formation or molding. Therefore, metaplasia literally means beyond formation or change in formation.
Similar spelling words for METAPLASIA
- MUDPILES,
- Matabeles,
- metabolise,
- metabolize,
- metabolous,
- metopaulias,
- meatyballs,
- mutabilis,
- meatballs,
- madballs,
- metabolies.
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