Glandular metaplasia

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Glandular Metaplasia

Glandular metaplasia (pronunciation: glan-dew-lar met-uh-play-zee-uh) is a type of metaplasia where non-glandular epithelial tissue or connective tissue changes to glandular tissue.

Etymology

The term 'glandular metaplasia' is derived from the Greek words 'glandula' meaning 'small gland', and 'metaplasia' meaning 'change in form'.

Definition

Glandular metaplasia is a reversible cellular adaptation where one mature cell type is replaced by another mature cell type. This change is often a response to chronic irritation or inflammation, and the new cell type is better able to survive and function under the new conditions.

Examples

One common example of glandular metaplasia is the change of the squamous epithelial cells in the esophagus to glandular cells, a condition known as Barrett's esophagus. This change is often a response to chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Clinical Significance

While glandular metaplasia is often a protective response, it can sometimes lead to dysplasia, a precancerous condition. Therefore, areas of glandular metaplasia are often monitored closely for signs of dysplasia.

Related Terms

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