A neoplasm is an abnormal growth of cells or tissues in the body that is not under physiologic control. The abnormal growth itself is called a neoplasm or tumor. Neoplasms can be either benign or malignant. Benign neoplasms do not grow aggressively, do not invade the surrounding body tissues, and do not spread throughout the body. Malignant neoplasms, on the other hand, tend to grow rapidly, invade the tissues around them, and spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. The term "cancer" is often used interchangeably with malignant neoplasms, but only malignant neoplasms are truly cancers.
Neoplasms can be subclassified as either benign or malignant. There is no single mechanism by which a neoplasm arises, and many different mechanisms give rise to neoplasms. The causes of neoplastic disease are not fully understood, but there are certain risk factors associated with malignant neoplasms, including smoking, genetics, obesity, excessive alcohol use, chemical toxins, excessive exposure to radiation, and excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
The diagnosis and treatment of neoplasms depend on the type of neoplasm and its location. Each type of neoplasm requires individual care and may include one or a combination of treatment therapies such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, cryosurgery (freezing), hyperthermia, hormonal therapy, and immunotherapy. While some neoplasms can be cured, others cannot be cured, but treatment can prolong life and improve quality of life.
