Identifying the Different Types of Tumors

Tumors can develop on any person. They can form on any part of the body, and generally require the attention of a medical professional. Felt as a lump or mass on the body, tumors may cause alarm to the individual who finds it. However, it is important to note that there are several different types of tumors, and while some can be potentially dangerous and lead to cancer, not all are harmful. A tumor, or neoplasm, is made up of a mass of abnormal tissue. They can be solid or filled with liquid. Tumors can also vary in size and can develop from almost any type of cell or tissue. 

The Three Main Categories of Tumor Identification:

Benign

Benign tumors are noncancerous growths. They can form anywhere, but they do not spread to other areas of the body. While benign growths are common, the cause of the tumor isn’t always identifiable. Generally, benign tumors form when dead cells are not replaced, allowing them to form into a growth. Benign tumors can be categorized into different classifications dependent on where they grow on the body. Usually, a medical professional will diagnose a benign tumor through a series of tests which may include CT scans, MRI scans, X-Rays, etc. Doctors may also perform a biopsy to confirm the tumor is benign, and not malignant. When it comes to treating benign tumors, doctors may recommend simply monitoring the growth if there are no additional side effects present. If the tumor does require treatment, doctors may perform surgery to remove the mass, or radiation therapy to reduce the size, depending on the location.  

Premalignant

While not yet cancerous, premalignant tumors indicate a chance of developing into cancer. Because of this, it is critical that premalignant tumors are monitored closely. Generally, a patient will undergo a series of clinical and lab studies. From here, doctors work towards removing or killing the tissue associated with the growth to prevent the tumor from developing into cancer. There are several different types of premalignant growths. Examples include cervical dysplasia, actinic keratosis, metaplasia, and leukoplakia. 

Malignant 

Lastly, malignant tumors are diagnosed as a cancerous growth. They can grow quickly and can spread into other organs or parts of the body. When a person has cancer, the cells in their body divide and spread. Damaged cells that should be replaced remain and new cells continue to form despite the need. Cancer can arise from several factors, but most commonly due to genetics or environmental causes. There are hundreds of different types of cancer. A type of cancer is usually named depending on the organ or tissue where it has formed.