Which remodeling change involves an increase in the number of bronchial smooth muscle cells?

• A. Edema
• B. Atrophy
• C. Hyperplasia
• D. Fibrosis

Answer: (C)

Hyperplasia is an increase in the number of bronchial smooth muscle cells due to higher cell proliferation, which thickens the smooth muscle layer and narrows the airway lumen. This specific change focuses on cell count, not cell size.

Edema involves fluid buildup and swelling, not more cells. Atrophy means a reduction in cell size or number. Fibrosis is deposition of excess connective tissue replacing normal tissue, not an increase in smooth muscle cells.