What term describes the condition of excessive cell division leading to the formation of tumors?

The condition of excessive cell division leading to the formation of tumors is referred to as neoplasia. Neoplasia involves the abnormal proliferation of cells that can result in the development of benign or malignant tumors. This process is not simply an increase in the number of cells, but rather a transformation that leads to uncontrolled growth, which is characteristic of cancer.

In contrast, hyperplasia is defined as an increase in the number of cells in a tissue or organ, but it usually occurs in a controlled manner and is often a normal or adaptive response to a stimulus. Metaplasia refers to the reversible change in which one type of adult cell is replaced by another type of adult cell, typically in response to chronic irritation or inflammation. Dysplasia indicates an abnormal development or growth of cells that may be precancerous but does not yet qualify as neoplasia.

Therefore, neoplasia specifically encapsulates the concept of uncontrolled cell proliferation leading to tumor formation, making it the most appropriate term in this context.