METAPLASTIC Meaning and
Definition
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Metaplastic refers to a condition or process characterized by the transformation or abnormal development of cells in an organism. The term is often used in medical and biological contexts to describe the conversion of one type of tissue into another type that is not normally found in that particular location.
In the field of medicine, metaplasia refers to a reversible change in the normal cellular structure of a tissue due to chronic irritation, inflammation, or injury. This can result in the replacement of the normal tissue with another type of cell that is better able to endure the specific stressor. For instance, metaplastic changes may occur in the lining of the respiratory tract of smokers, where the normal ciliated columnar cells may be replaced by squamous cells. This transformation is considered to be a protective response to the constant exposure to irritants, but it can also increase the risk of developing certain diseases, such as lung cancer.
A metaplastic process can also occur during embryonic development when one type of tissue differentiates into a completely different type in order to fulfill a specific function. This is seen, for example, in the transformation of mesenchymal cells into bone or cartilage during skeletal development.
Overall, the term metaplastic is used to describe an abnormal change in cell type or tissue structure, whether it occurs due to injury, chronic irritation, or during embryonic development.
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Relating to metaplasia or metaplasis.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for METAPLASTIC
Etymology of METAPLASTIC
The word metaplastic is derived from the Greek roots meta, meaning change, and plassein, meaning to mold or form.
Similar spelling words for METAPLASTIC
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