Which condition refers to the incomplete development of an organ or tissue?

Hypoplasia is the condition that describes the incomplete development or underdevelopment of an organ or tissue. This term indicates that there is a reduced number of cells or an inadequate amount of tissue as compared to what is considered normal. Hypoplasia can occur in various organs, such as the teeth, lungs, or other structures, resulting in functionality that may be diminished or altered due to the reduced size or volume of the affected organ or tissue.

Aplasia, in contrast, typically refers to the absence of an organ or tissue due to failure of development, rather than partial development. Anaplasia denotes a reversion of cells to a more primitive or embryonic form, often associated with malignancy. Hyperplasia indicates an increase in the number of cells in an organ or tissue, leading to its enlargement, which is the opposite of what occurs in hypoplasia. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the medical field for accurate diagnosis and treatment.