Overgrowth of endometrial cells in the lining of the uterus may lead to a(n):

• A. cyst.
• B. polyp.
• C. fibroid.
• D. abscess.

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is polyp. Endometrial polyps are growths that occur on the lining of the uterus (the endometrium) and are typically a result of an overgrowth of endometrial cells. These polyps can vary in size and number and are often benign, although they may sometimes contribute to abnormal uterine bleeding or other symptoms.

Polyps develop due to hormonal factors, particularly estrogen, which promotes the proliferation of the endometrial lining. As the endometrial cells proliferate excessively, they can form protruding masses or polyps, which can be asymptomatic or may present with clinical manifestations such as irregular menstrual cycles, intermenstrual bleeding, or infertility.

In contrast, cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop in various tissues, including the ovaries, but they do not arise specifically from the endometrial lining. Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are benign tumors of the smooth muscle tissue of the uterus and are not a direct result of overgrowth of endometrial cells themselves. Abscesses are localized infections that can lead to a collection of pus in tissues, which is also a different process altogether compared to the benign growth of endometrial tissue seen in polyps.

Thus