**Core Concept**
Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of non-cancerous tumors in various parts of the body, including the skin, brain, kidneys, and other organs. It is caused by mutations in either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene, leading to the activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
TSC is characterized by the development of hamartomas, which are benign tumors composed of disorganized tissue. The mTOR pathway plays a crucial role in cell growth, proliferation, and survival, and its dysregulation is central to the pathogenesis of TSC. The disorder is often associated with the growth of subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) in the brain, lymphangiomyomatosis (LAM) in the lungs, and renal angiomyolipomas (AMLs) in the kidneys.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:**
* This option is incorrect because TSC is indeed characterized by the growth of hamartomas, which are benign tumors composed of disorganized tissue.

**Option B:**
* This option is incorrect because seizures are a common neurological manifestation of TSC, often presenting as infantile spasms or as a component of the West syndrome.

**Option C:**
* This option is incorrect because intellectual disability is a common feature of TSC, affecting up to 50% of individuals with the disorder.

**Option D:**
* This option is incorrect because TSC is not typically associated with the growth of meningiomas, which are benign tumors that arise from the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical feature of TSC is the presence of ash-leaf spots, which are small, hypopigmented macules that can be seen on the skin of affected individuals. These spots are a result of the abnormal growth of neurons in the skin and are often one of the earliest signs of the disorder.

**Correct Answer: A.**