Question

A non-tumorous enlargement of an organ/tissue as a result of an increase in size rather than number of constituent cell is

• A. Hypertrophy
• B. Hyperplasia
• C. Atrophy
• D. Neoplasia

Hint:

Remember the suffix: "-trophy" relates to nourishment or size (Hypertrophy = Big cells), while "-plasia" relates to formation or number (Hyperplasia = More cells). This distinction is vital in histopathology.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks to identify the pathological or physiological term used to describe the enlargement of a tissue or organ specifically due to the increased volume of individual cells, as opposed to an increase in the total number of cells.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Hypertrophy: This refers to an increase in the size of cells, which leads to an increase in the size of the organ. In fish, this is often seen in muscle tissue during growth or in certain organs undergoing compensatory changes. There is no new cell formation; instead, the existing cells accumulate more proteins and organelles.

• Hyperplasia: This is defined as an increase in the number of cells in an organ or tissue. While it also leads to organ enlargement, the mechanism is cellular division (mitosis). For example, gill hyperplasia is a common response in fish exposed to irritants or parasites where the epithelial cells multiply rapidly to form a protective barrier.

• Atrophy: This is the opposite of hypertrophy and hyperplasia. It involves the wasting away or reduction in size of an organ or tissue due to cell loss or reduction in cell size, often caused by malnutrition, disease, or lack of use.

• Neoplasia: This refers to "new growth" and is the process that leads to the formation of tumors. It involves uncontrolled and abnormal cell proliferation, which can be benign or malignant.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The enlargement due to increased cell size is termed Hypertrophy.