hypoplasia

(noun)

Underdevelopment or incomplete development of a tissue or organ, especially when caused by an inadequate or below-normal number of cells.

Related Terms

Examples of hypoplasia in the following topics:

  • Congenital Heart Defects

    • Hypoplasia can affect the heart, typically resulting in the underdevelopment of the right ventricle or the left ventricle.
    • Hypoplasia of the heart is rare, but is the most serious form of CHD.
    • Hypoplasia of the heart is generally a cyanotic heart defect.

  • Teratogens

    • Warfarin typically produces mental retardation, growth restriction, nasal hypoplasia, and opthalmic abnormalities.
    • Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors will cause fetal renal failure and oligohydramnios that lead to pulmonary hypoplasia and limb contracture.

  • Polycystic Kidney Disease

    • Unfortunately, resulting hypoplasia results in a 30% death rate in neonates with ARPKD.

  • Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension

    • The fetus is at increased risk for a variety of life-threatening conditions, including pulmonary hypoplasia (immature lungs).