Hyperplasia is excessive growth of cells in normal tissues and organs, which can lead to cancer. There are different types, including endometrial, adrenal, parathyroid, and prostatic, classified as simple, complex, simple with atypia, or complex with atypia. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.
Hyperplasia is a condition characterized by excessive growth of cells and affecting normal tissues and organs. This proliferation in the cells could lead to cancer. The different types of this condition are endometrial, adrenal, parathyroid and prostatic. Hyperplasia is classified as simple; complex; simple with atypia, meaning cellular abnormality; or complex with atypia.
Simple hyperplasia without atypia is the least dangerous form of this condition. This occurs when there is an overgrowth of cells, but the basic structure remains unchanged. In the complex form without atypia, cell proliferation is more complex, but its internal structure remains normal. Both cases have the lowest probability of developing cancer.
A less common form is classified as simple with atypia. This form often responds to hormone therapy. If the condition is classified as complex with atypia, there is up to about a 30% chance of cancer developing. A doctor might recommend surgical removal in this case.
The adrenal glands sit on top of the kidneys and produce various hormones, including cortisol and adrenaline. Initially, the excessive growth of cells seen in adrenal hyperplasia results in excessive adrenal hormone secretion. As the condition progresses, it typically results in an inability of the adrenal glands to produce enough hormones. A doctor will often prescribe cortisol replacement in this circumstance. Aldosterone, a hormone that regulates sodium, is also sometimes prescribed.
Endometrial hyperplasia affects the inner lining of the uterus in women. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to the development of this condition. Most of the time, it is non-cancerous and easy to treat. A doctor will generally recommend hormone therapy and monitor the condition to reduce the risk of cancer. In rare circumstances, it can progress to uterine cancer.
There are four parathyroid glands located in the neck that secrete calcium regulating hormones. Hyperplasia causes these glands to become enlarged, resulting in increased calcium levels. A doctor will order tests to determine calcium levels and watch how much calcium is excreted from the body. Surgery to remove three of the four parathyroid glands is the preferred method of treatment. Elevated calcium levels persist after surgery in about 20% of patients.
As men age, the prostate gland slowly enlarges. This is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia and generally doesn’t cause problems until after the age of 40. The enlarged prostate causes the gland to press against the urethra, irritating the bladder and causing frequent urination. The cause is not fully understood, but decreased levels of the hormone testosterone are thought to be a factor. A doctor might prescribe medications designed to shrink the prostate or recommend minimally invasive surgery.
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