Tumor: Your Guide to Benign & Malignant Tumor

You’re reading this blog because you or a loved one may have recently been diagnosed with a tumour. It’s completely normal to feel afraid and raise countless questions in your mind. Is this dangerous? What does "benign" or "malignant" mean? Can malignant cancer be cured? 

What happens next? This uncertainty can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll help you understand tumours in simple terms, from what they are to how they’re treated. If you're facing any such condition reach out to the Best Oncologist in Jaipur at CK Birla Hospital.

So, let’s start! 

What is a tumour?

A tumour, medically known as neoplasm, is a mass of abnormal cells that form in your body. They can be big or small. Your body can have a single or multiple tumours. Tumour can affect any part of your body. It may include tissue, organs, glands, skin and bone. 

Many people believe that a "tumour" always means "cancer," but that’s not true. Many tumours are benign, which means they are not cancerous. Your healthcare provider can explain what the tumour means for your health based on its type and how serious it is.

Types of tumors

Tumours are categorised into three parts: malignant (cancerous) tumors, benign (noncancerous) tumours and precancerous tumours. 

1. Malignant (Cancerous) Tumors: Malignant tumours can spread to nearby tissues, glands, and other parts of your body. When they spread, the new tumours are called metastases, or "mets." While some malignant tumours are curable, others can be life-threatening.
2.  Benign (Noncancerous) Tumors: Benign tumours are not cancerous and rarely life-threatening. They stay localised and don’t usually spread to other parts of the body. Many benign tumours don’t need treatment unless they press on nearby areas and cause problems.
3. Precancerous Tumors: Precancerous tumours aren’t cancer yet but could become cancerous if untreated. These growths may show rapid cell division ("hyperplasia") or abnormal cell changes ("dysplasia"). Healthcare providers closely monitor and treat them when necessary.

Benign tumors: Noncancerous growths

Benign tumours are not cancer. They grow slowly and usually stay in one place without spreading to other parts of the body. These tumours are rarely life-threatening and often don’t require treatment unless they press on vital organs or cause discomfort.

Examples of benign tumours:

• Lipomas (fatty lumps under the skin)
• Fibroids (common in the uterus)
• Adenomas (in glands, such as the thyroid)
• Even though benign tumours are generally harmless, it’s still important to monitor them.
• If they grow or cause issues, your doctor may recommend treatment.

Malignant tumors: Cancerous growths

Malignant tumours are more serious because they can invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body through a process called metastasis. Early detection and treatment are crucial for managing malignant tumours, as some are curable while others can be life-threatening.

Signs of malignant tumours:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue
• Persistent pain
• Changes in the skin (lumps, sores, or discoloration)

Examples of malignant tumours:

• Carcinomas (cancer in the skin or organs)
• Sarcomas (cancer in bones, muscles, or fat)
• Leukemia (cancer in blood-forming tissues)

Key differences between benign and malignant tumors

Feature	Benign Tumors	Malignant Tumors
Growth Rate	Slow	Rapid
Spread to Other Areas	No	Yes
Life Threat	Rarely	Can be

What are the symptoms of a tumour?

The symptoms of a tumour may vary based on their location, size, and whether they are cancerous. Sometimes, you might feel a lump, like in the breast, or see a raised area if the tumour is close to the skin. However, not all tumours are noticeable by touch or sight.

Some common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Night sweats
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
• Painful lump (though some tumors may not cause pain)

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation.

What are the risk factors for tumours?

Tumours can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase the chances of developing one. These risk factors can vary depending on the type of tumour, but some common ones include:

• Gene mutations, like the BRCA genes
• Inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome or neurofibromatosis (NFS)
• Family history of cancers, like breast cancer or prostate cancer
• Smoking or being exposed to secondhand smoke
• Excessive alcohol use
• Exposure to toxins like benzene or asbestos
• Previous radiation exposure
• Viruses like HPV
• Obesity

While having one or more of these risk factors doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop a tumour, understanding them can help with early detection and prevention. It’s always helpful to talk to your healthcare provider about your personal risk factors.

The final word

Knowing the difference between benign and malignant tumours is important for prevention and treatment. Benign tumours are usually harmless, while malignant ones can be dangerous and need more serious treatment. Early detection is key to better outcomes, so stay informed and take action if you notice any symptoms. 

Whom to consult for tumour

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about tumours, don't wait. Contact a healthcare professional today. Early detection and treatment are key to managing your health. 

FAQs

 

Can tumours be prevented? 

While not all tumours can be prevented, leading a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of some types.

Can a benign tumour become malignant?

In rare cases, a benign tumour can become malignant, but most stay non-cancerous.

Is a benign tumour cancerous? 

No, benign tumours are not cancerous and typically do not spread to other parts of the body.