HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

In medical terms, what does hypertrophy often imply?

1. Loss of function in a tissue

2. Uncontrolled cell division

3. Growth in size or number of cells

4. Reduction of vascularization in tissues

The correct answer is: Growth in size or number of cells

Hypertrophy refers to the increase in the size of a tissue or organ due to the enlargement of its cells. This process typically occurs in response to increased workload or stimulus, leading to more substantial cell mass. It is commonly seen in muscles, such as during exercise, where the muscle fibers grow in response to physical stress. The term specifically relates to cell size rather than number, which distinguishes it from hyperplasia, a term that involves an increase in the number of cells in a tissue. Understanding hypertrophy is essential in various medical contexts, including rehabilitation and athletic training, where managed growth and development of tissues play a crucial role in recovery and performance.