Malignancy refers to the tendency of a medical condition to become progressively worse, and the term is most commonly associated with cancer
. Malignant tumors, also known as malignant neoplasms or malignant tumors, are cancerous growths that develop when cells grow and divide more than they should
. These tumors can invade nearby tissues and spread to distant parts of the body
. Malignant tumors are characterized by anaplasia, invasiveness, and metastasis
. Key differences between malignant and benign tumors include:
- Growth : Malignant tumors grow uncontrollably and can invade adjacent tissues, while benign tumors grow slowly and have distinct borders
- Spread : Malignant tumors can spread locally and/or to distant sites, forming new tumors in other areas of the body
. Benign tumors generally do not invade and spread
- Growth Rate : Malignant tumors tend to grow faster than benign tumors
- Metastasis : Malignant tumors can spread rapidly, requiring treatment to avoid the spread of cancer
. Benign tumors are unlikely to recur once removed
Malignant tumors can develop in any part of the body and are most likely to affect people over the age of 65
. There are five main types of malignant neoplasms (cancers), including carcinomas, which develop in epithelial cells, and sarcomas, which form in bones and soft and fibrous tissues
. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing malignant tumors. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these methods, depending on the type and stage of the cancer
