metaplasia
noun
meta·pla·sia ˌme-tə-ˈplā-zh(ē-)ə 
1
: transformation of one tissue into another
2
: abnormal replacement of cells of one type by cells of another
metaplastic
ˌme-tə-ˈpla-stik
adjective 
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web Other theories have included immune dysfunction, chronic inflammation, and metaplasia (an abnormal change in the tissue). 
Abby Haglage, SELF, 25 Oct. 2017
Abby Haglage, SELF, 25 Oct. 2017 Word History
Etymology
New Latin
First Known Use
1883, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Medical Definition
metaplasia
noun
meta·pla·sia ˌmet-ə-ˈplā-zh(ē-)ə
1
: transformation of one tissue into another
metaplasia of cartilage into bone
2
: abnormal replacement of cells of one type by cells of another