dysplastic

Dysplastic is a medical term describing tissue or cells that show dysplasia, a disordered growth characterized by abnormal cell maturation and architectural disturbance. The word derives from Greek, with dys- meaning bad and plasis meaning formation. In pathology, dysplasia refers to epithelial cells that appear abnormal in size, shape, and arrangement but have not invaded underlying tissues. Features often include cellular pleomorphism, hyperchromatic nuclei, increased mitotic activity, and a loss of normal maturation.

Dysplasia is typically graded as low-grade or high-grade. In many organ systems, high-grade dysplasia is considered preinvasive or closer to carcinoma, while low-grade dysplasia carries a lower immediate risk. However, prognosis and management depend on the site and grade.

Common contexts include cervical dysplasia (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia), which is associated with human papillomavirus infection and monitored or treated to prevent cervical cancer; colorectal dysplasia in adenomatous polyps; bronchial and gastric dysplasia; and cutaneous dysplastic nevi, which are atypical moles with a heightened risk of melanoma.

Dysplasia must be distinguished from hyperplasia, which is an increased number of cells, and metaplasia, a change in the type of mature cells. It is not always cancer, but high-grade dysplasia may progress to invasive cancer if not addressed. Management is site-specific and may include surveillance, endoscopic or surgical excision, or ablation. The term is widely used across medical disciplines, reflecting its role as a potential precursor to malignancy.