Nondysplastic

Nondysplastic is a term used in pathology to describe tissue or cells that do not show dysplasia. Dysplasia refers to abnormal cellular growth and architectural disorganization that can be a precursor to cancer. When a lesion is labeled nondysplastic, the sampled tissue lacks the cytologic atypia and structural derangements characteristic of dysplasia. The designation is often used in the context of premalignant conditions and is reported alongside other features such as inflammation, metaplasia, or regenerative change.

This term is commonly employed in gastroenterology and pathology. For example, nondysplastic Barrett's esophagus indicates intestinal metaplasia without dysplastic changes in the columnar epithelia. In the colon, certain polyps or mucosal areas may be described as nondysplastic if they lack dysplasia, such as hyperplastic polyps. Inflammatory or regenerative processes can produce changes that resemble dysplasia, so careful interpretation by a pathologist is important to avoid misclassification.

Nondysplastic does not guarantee the absence of cancer elsewhere in the organ, and management depends on the organ involved, the patient’s history, and current clinical guidelines. Surveillance intervals, eradication or removal strategies, and follow-up plans are tailored to the specific condition and overall risk profile. The distinction between nondysplastic and dysplastic changes helps guide prognosis and treatment decisions.

See also: dysplasia, premalignant lesions, metaplasia, Barrett’s esophagus, hyperplastic polyp.