Dysplasia: Understanding Abnormal Cell Growth - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

The term dysplasia refers to a type of growth that is abnormal or disordered. Dysplastic growths are not yet cancerous but may develop into a carcinoma in situ if ignored, although they are usually treated before they can transform into cancer.

Etymology

• The word dysplasia comes from the Greek "dys," meaning abnormal or difficult, and "plassien," to form or mold.

Dictionary Definition

• Merriam-Webster defines dysplasia as an "abnormal growth or development (as of organs or cells)" or more broadly as " abnormal anatomical structure due to such growth."

Characteristics

• There are four characteristics of dysplasia: unequally sized cells, abnormally shaped cells, excessive pigmentation, and unusual rate of cell division.

Cervical Dysplasia

• Cervical dysplasia is abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix. Cervical dysplasia is found by performing a PAP smear and removed to prevent the development of cervical cancer.

Dysplastic Nevi

• Dysplastic nevi are benign moles that resemble melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. Dysplastic nevi are oddly shaped and multi-colored. The presence of dysplastic nevi indicates an increased risk for developing melanoma.