Hyperplasia is characterized by what cellular change?

• A. Decrease in cell mass
• B. Conversion of cell types
• C. Increased number of normal cells
• D. Abnormal size and shape changes

Answer: (C)

Hyperplasia is characterized by an increased number of normal cells in a tissue or organ. This process occurs in response to various stimuli, such as hormonal changes or increased functional demand. Unlike hypertrophy, which refers to an increase in the size of individual cells, hyperplasia results in a greater overall cell count while maintaining normal cell structure and function.

This increased cellular proliferation is commonly observed in tissues such as the breast during pregnancy (in response to hormonal changes), the liver after partial removal (as part of regenerative processes), or in the endometrium during the menstrual cycle. In contrast to the other options, which suggest a decrease in cell mass, conversion to different cell types, or abnormal morphology, hyperplasia specifically emphasizes the proliferation of normal cells without the dysplastic characteristics associated with malignancy.