Dysplasia is a term that describes abnormal cell growth on the body. Different types of dysplasia diseases can affect different areas of the body, including the cervix, bones and cardiovascular system, specifically the arteries. Dysplasia diseases do not usually cause any physical symptoms and, therefore, early diagnosis is possible only with annual physical exams.
Cervical Dysplasia
Cervical dysplasia is a disease characterized by abnormal cell growth on the cervix. The disease usually occurs as a result of an infection with the human papillomavirus. Cervical dysplasia is classified as low-grade or high-grade. Low-grade cervical dysplasia describes abnormal cell growth that moves very slowly and usually clears up without any type of intervention. High-grade cervical dysplasia involves precancerous cells that can eventually transform into cervical cancer. Those with cervical dysplasia do not usually experience any symptoms, but occasional symptoms can include genital warts, abnormal bleeding, spotting, vaginal discharge and pain during intercourse, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. No treatment is needed for low-grade cervical dysplasia. High-grade cervical dysplasia is treated using outpatient surgical techniques to remove abnormal tissue. These surgical techniques include laser therapy; cryocauterization, which is the use of extremely cold temperatures to destroy abnormal cells; and loop electrosurgical excision, which is the physical removal of the cells with a wire loop.
Fibrous Dysplasia
Fibrous dysplasia is a bone disease characterized by the growth of scar-like tissue, or fibrous tissue, in the place of normal bone tissue. Fibrous dysplasia is a genetic disorder that is caused by a gene mutation. The bones most often affected include the thighbone, shinbone, pelvic bones, ribs, skull, facial bones and upper arm bone, according to MayoClinic.com. When the fibrous tissue replaces normal bone structure, the bones become weak and more likely to fracture or break. There is no cure for fibrous dysplasia, but treatment includes medications aimed at inhibiting the breakdown of bone and maintaining bone mass. Surgery may be needed to correct breaks and fractures.
Fibromuscular Dysplasia
Fibromuscular dysplasia is a condition characterized by abnormal cell growth in the walls of medium and large arteries. The abnormal cell growth causes the arteries to narrow, which makes it difficult for blood to travel through them. Most cases of fibromuscular dysplasia affect the renal artery, which runs from the abdomen to the kidney. The carotid arteries, which are the arteries in the neck that connect the heart and the brain, are the second most commonly affected arteries, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The cause of fibromuscular dysplasia is unknown, but underlying conditions, such as lack of oxygen, hormonal imbalances and genetics, play a role in the development of the disease. Most cases of fibromuscular dysplasia do not require treatment. Severe cases may be treated with anti-clotting medications, blood pressure medications, or surgery to open up the affected artery.
