What would you call a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in connective tissue growth?

The condition characterized by an abnormal increase in connective tissue growth is known as fibrosis. This process involves the excessive formation of fibrous tissue, typically as a result of chronic inflammation or injury. When tissues heal after injury, the body replaces damaged cells with fibrous connective tissue, which can lead to thickening and scarring known as fibrosis. This is particularly common in organs such as the lungs, liver, and kidneys, where excessive fibrosis can impair function.

In contrast, other terms do not accurately describe this specific condition. Neoplasia refers to the abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells, often resulting in tumors, which may not be specifically related to connective tissue growth. Hyperplasia denotes an increase in the number of cells in a tissue or organ, but does not specify the type of tissue or imply the formation of connective tissue specifically. Metaplasia involves a reversible change from one type of cell to another, usually in response to chronic irritation, rather than an increase in tissue growth itself. Therefore, fibrosis accurately captures the essence of atypical connective tissue growth.