What is the difference between malignant and benign tumors?
Tumors are abnormal cell growths that can appear in any part the body. There are two types of tumors: benign and cancerous.
Both types of cancer can cause serious health problems. However, they have some important differences.
Benign Tumors
Non-cancerous benign tumors grow slowly. They do not spread outside the body. The growth of benign tumours usually occurs in one place and does not spread to nearby tissues.
Benign tumors can often be left alone, but they can also be removed when necessary. The tumor may be left untreated if it does not pose any danger to health. It will still need to be monitored for changes in size and symptoms.
Benign tumors can be classified into:
* Adenomas – These tumors develop in the epithelium surrounding organs like the liver, the pancreas and the endocrine system. Colon polyps is one of the most common forms.
* Fbromas: These are tumors that form in fibrous connective tissues throughout the body. Most commonly, they occur in the uterus.
* Lipomas – These benign tumors are most commonly found in fat cells. These tumors are usually soft, painless and moveable. They do not require treatment until they cause symptoms or become painful.
* Hemangiomas These tumors occur in blood vessels and can be seen on the skin as raised red patches.
* Meningiomas – These are tumors that form in the thin meninges which cover the brain and spine cord. Malignant Tumors
* Neuromas: These tumors occur in nerves. They are often found on the nerves of hands and feet.
* Osteomas: These tumours can form on any bone in the body.
Malignant Tumors
These tumors can metastasize to other areas of the body. These tumors can be more aggressive, and grow rapidly. These tumors are more difficult to treat because they can invade the surrounding tissue.
Treatment for malignant tumours can include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. This treatment can be used depending on the type and size of the tumor to either remove or slow down the growth of cancerous cells.
Malignant tumors can take many forms.
* Cancer: These tumors are the most common form of cancer. They develop in epithelial cell.
* sarcoma: These tumours develop in soft tissues such as bones, tendons, ligaments and fat tissues.
*
Lymphoma : The tumors are formed in the lymphatic system which is part the immune system.
Diagnosing Tumors
Speak to your doctor if you have any symptoms that could be due to a tumor. The doctor will run tests to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant, and then discuss treatment options.
Early diagnosis and treatment of tumors can have a significant impact on your chance of recovery. It is important to keep up with regular health checks and screenings. Early diagnosis is the key to a successful outcome. Tumors can’t always be prevented.
