Which of the following terms refers to an increase in the size of an organ or tissue due to an increase in the size of its cells?

The correct term that describes an increase in the size of an organ or tissue resulting from an increase in the size of its cells is hypertrophy. This biological process occurs when individual cells grow larger, which can happen as a response to increased work or stress, leading to the enhanced function of the tissue. A common example of hypertrophy can be seen in skeletal muscle tissue, where muscle fibers increase in size due to exercise and resistance training.

In contrast, atrophy refers to a decrease in the size of an organ or tissue, often due to disuse, reduced blood supply, or other factors that lead to a reduction in cell size and number. Hyperplasia, on the other hand, is characterized by an increase in the number of cells in a tissue or organ, which can lead to an overall increase in size as well, but does so through cell proliferation rather than individual cell enlargement. Aplasia refers to the failure of an organ or tissue to develop or grow, resulting in an absence of cells.

Understanding the distinctions between these terms is crucial in comprehending various physiological and pathological processes in the body.