Types and features of a benign tumor. Benign tumor - types, symptoms and treatment. The difference between benign and malignant tumors

Content

When the mechanisms of control of growth, differentiation and division of cells in the human body are violated, pathological formations arise, which can be benign or malignant. The basis of the process is considered to be genetic damage, leading to DNA damage.

What is a benign tumor

This is a disease that develops as a result of a violation of cell division. In a certain area, where their structure changes, a benign formation occurs. A feature of the pathology is slow growth. Often, the neoplasm retains its original size for several years, after which it can develop into a malignant one or completely disappear. Benign neoplasms can be distinguished by the following features:

• the formation is mobile and not connected to neighboring tissues;
• when pressed, pain is felt;
• with internal pathological processes, sleep disturbance, fatigue are noted;
• external formations on the skin or mucous membranes sometimes bleed.

Benign tumor that develops from adipose tissue

One of the most common (40%) neoplasms is lipoma. A benign tumor that develops from adipose tissue occurs everywhere: in the lumbar region, on the hips, arms and abdomen. A lipoma can come out in the membranes of the brain, between the muscles, in the mammary glands or on the internal organs. There are multiple and single fatty growths (bumps). There are also numerous variants of fatty tumors that differ from lipomas in morphological features:

• myelolipoma;
• subcutaneous angiolipoma;
• spindle cell lipoma;
• benign lipoblastomatosis;
• hibernoma.

Benign connective tissue tumor

Often there is a benign tumor of the connective tissue - fibroma or cyst. They can grow on vascular, cartilaginous and bone tissue, in the dermis and striated muscle tissue. The consistency of fibroids is different - from dense to densely elastic. Allocate multiple (fibromatosis) or a single lesion of the connective or smooth muscle tissue. A more frequent location of fibroids is observed on organs such as:

• uterus;
• soft tissues of the legs, arms, neck, face;
• hard tissues of the crown, forehead;
• milk glands;
• ovaries;
• language;
• lungs;
• bones.

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What is the difference between a benign tumor and a malignant one?

Sometimes it is difficult to immediately distinguish between a particular neoplasm, so their clinical characteristics should be taken into account. The main difference between a benign tumor and a malignant one is the slow growth of the former. They are not capable of relapses and processes called metastasis, do not grow into neighboring tissues and organs, do not affect the health of the body and give a relatively favorable prognosis. In malignant formation, cells divide uncontrollably and repeatedly, they are able to metastasize to other organs and tissues.

Can a benign tumor become malignant?

If the neoplasm is not malignant, then in most cases, with timely treatment, you can get rid of it forever. Its local influence lies only in the fact that signs of squeezing or pushing healthy tissues may appear. Can a benign tumor become malignant? There is always risk. Malignancy or malignancy can occur a year or several decades after the onset of the pathology. The most dangerous in this respect are adenomas, gastrointestinal polyps, urinary tract papillomas, and some types of nevi.

Types of benign tumors

At the cellular level, any human organs can undergo histological changes. Pathology can develop in lymphoid, nervous, cartilage tissues. Depending on the degree of neglect of the disease, all neoplasms have a gradation: severe, moderate, mild. There is also a classification of benign tumors:

• epithelial (hepatocellular adenoma of the liver, lymphoma, melanoma, osteoma, rhabdomyoma, chondroma);
• nonepithelial (hemangioma, fibroma, leiomyoma, uterine myoma, angiomyolipoma);
• others (juxtaglomerular cell formation).

benign brain tumor

The primary formations of the brain develop from the nerve tissues present in the cranial cavity. Some of them are functionally active and produce various hormonal substances. A striking example is pituitary adenoma, which eventually leads to the development of endocrine diseases. A benign brain tumor with timely intervention gives chances for a high life expectancy. The most common types of brain damage:

• pituitary adenoma;
• meningioma;
• schwannoma;
• astrocytoma;
• oligodendroglioma;
• ependymoma;
• craniopharyngioma.

Benign skin tumors

A characteristic feature of skin neoplasms is their loneliness and slow growth. A benign skin tumor is not dangerous, but if it begins to change color or grow, you should immediately consult a doctor. These innovations include:

• seborrheic wart;
• keratoacanthoma;
• papilloma;
• pigmented nevus;
• lipoma;
• angioma;
• dermatofibroma.

benign lung tumor

Such a neoplasm looks like a round or oval nodule that appears on the lungs, bronchi or pleura. They occur in women and men with the same frequency, and make up 10% of the total number of formations. Benign lung tumors are deep and superficial. They are accompanied by purulent sputum, profuse sweating, fever, thickening of the lymphoid tissue, enlarged lymph nodes. Depending on their structure, they are distinguished:

• disembryogenetic (teratomas, hamartomas);
• neuroectodermal (neurofibromas, neurinomas);
• epithelial (from glandular epithelium: adenomas, papillomas);
• mesodermal (lipomas, fibromas).

Signs of a benign tumor

Each disease has its own symptoms. At the initial stage, the symptoms of a benign tumor in adults and children may be absent at all or in the acute period there may be general symptoms - deterioration of health, loss of appetite, weakness. When it passes, the disease again goes asymptomatic. Depending on the type of neoplasm, the signs are different, for example:

1. Epithelioma. Occurs on the face, neck, scalp, shoulder girdle, is asymptomatic.
2. Pathology of the thyroid gland. The patient feels drowsiness, shortness of breath, nodes are felt during palpation, but do not hurt.
3. Prostate adenoma. In men, urination disorder, thirst, loss of appetite, polyuria.
4. Fibroma of the breast. It is characterized by a hard spherical lump under the skin of the mammary gland.

Treatment of benign tumors

In many cases, doctors choose the waiting method to make sure the growth is not growing. Treatment of a benign tumor is necessary when any complications occur. For this, a surgical method is used, the purpose of which is to remove the formation, without damaging neighboring tissues. Rarely used drug or radiation therapy.

Removal of a benign tumor

Modern medicine offers many ways to remove tumors. The most effective is the complete excision of the pathological tissue to prevent further spread. As a rule, after such an operation, relapses do not occur. Removal of a benign tumor is carried out using laser technology, and tissues are excised according to the principle of husking.

Another popular method for removing bumps is cryocoagulation. The principle of operation is to apply low temperature (-170 ° C) to the affected area. The new technology helps to accurately determine the area of ​​influence, falling exclusively on tumor cells, without touching healthy tissues. After such a manipulation, the patient sometimes has side effects: vomiting, nausea, baldness.

Is chemotherapy done for a benign tumor?

Chemistry is prescribed if the neoplasm has a cancerous or precancerous condition or after its removal. During this procedure, the area of ​​​​affected cells is affected by pharmacological agents. In terms of efficiency, it is second only to the surgical method. Is chemotherapy done for benign tumors? Since the main purpose of chemotherapy is to kill cancer cells, in their absence, the procedure is not prescribed.

Treatment of benign tumors with folk remedies

With the help of folk recipes, a neoplasm can be removed if it has arisen as a result of an injury, blow or bruise. To do this, you need lard and an infusion of chaga (1: 1). The mixture should be brought to a boil, removed from heat and insisted for a day. Apply 1-2 times a day until the condition improves. It should be remembered that self-treatment of benign tumors with folk remedies is unacceptable. Before carrying out any therapy, you need to consult a doctor.

Attention! The information provided in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials of the article do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give recommendations for treatment, based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

Discuss

Benign tumor - types, symptoms and treatment. The difference between benign and malignant tumors

The formation of tumors in the human body is possible at any age. There are many reasons for this. What tumors are, where they come from and how to deal with them, scientists do not fully know. However, there is an understanding that tumors are benign and malignant. They find different consequences and symptoms, the treatments also differ from each other.

A tumor is a process of tissue change in which the number of cells increases at a rapid rate. Tumors are divided into two groups - benign and malignant.

A benign tumor is a neoplasm, the cause is a failure in the process of cell division. This tumor is characterized by slow growth. It is well treated by surgical removal and in most cases does not lead to relapse. Does not spread to nearby organs, does not metastasize.

A benign tumor can occur in any organ. In medicine, the division of diseases into a number of types is used:

• Adenoma, or glandular tumor. Formed in organs with glandular tissue. For example, in the mucous membrane of the uterus and in the rectum, mammary or thyroid gland, etc.
• Atheroma. Localization of such a tumor is possible in any area of ​​the body where hair grows (head, groin area, lower face and neck, back). The reason is the blockage of the duct of the sebaceous glands.
• Cyst. An abnormal cavity formed in organs or tissues. There is probably liquid inside.
• Lymphangioma. Formation from lymphatic vessels. It usually develops in the womb. Localization anywhere. The neck, subcutaneous tissue is usually affected. Cases of occurrence in the liver and kidneys are possible, but rarely.
• Lipoma, or wen. Neoplasm in the subcutaneous connective tissues, probably spreading deeper. It is often localized in the area of ​​the shoulders and outer thighs, where there is relatively little adipose tissue.

• Meningioma. Tumor of the tissues surrounding the brain. Areas of localization: at the base of the brain, above it and between the hemispheres.
• Myoma. A neoplasm whose cells grow from immature muscle tissue.
• Neuroma. Formed from nerve cells. The reason is more often traumatic, ie. in the area of ​​​​the scar, the nerve is compacted.
• Papilloma. Formations on the mucous surface or over the skin caused by papillomavirus. Visually, it has the shape of a papilla protruding above the affected surface.
• Osteoma. A tumor formed in the bone tissue.
• Fibroma. Neoplasm of connective cells. As a rule, it sticks out above the skin and has a light pink tint.

A malignant tumor, or cancer, is characterized by uncontrolled cell division and poses a threat to human life. Malignant cells are easily detached from the tumor and distributed throughout the body through the blood vessels. When it enters the body, a new formation appears. This is how metastasis occurs. In addition, cancer cells are capable of destroying nearby tissues. After completion of therapy, a malignant tumor may reappear, i.e. recur.

Cancer neoplasms are usually divided into groups depending on the cells from which they are formed. Examples:

• Glioma. Malignant tumor of the central nervous system. It affects the cells of the spinal cord and brain.
• Carcinoma. Actually, cancer develops from the tissues of any organs, as well as mucous membranes and skin.
• Leukemia, or leukemia. Oncology that affects the cells of the hematopoietic system.

• Lymphoma. Cancer of the tissues of the lymphatic system.
• Melanoma. A malignant neoplasm on the skin, originating from the cells of age spots, mainly in places where the synthesis of melanin pigment is concentrated.
• Sarcoma. Occurs rarely. It is formed from cells of soft or bone tissues. Soft tissues include tendons, muscles, and fats.
• Teratoma. It affects the primary germ cells, resulting in a tumor of the ovaries in women or testicles in men.

Symptoms of tumor diseases

Benign neoplasms in the first stages of growth are manifested in the form of general weakness and decreased appetite. As the disease progresses, more “deeper” symptoms are added:

• pain;
• bleeding;
• increased body temperature;
• sudden weight loss;
• feeling of internal pressure on the organs;
• nausea.

When a neoplasm appears on the skin or in an area accessible to palpation, the presence is easy to determine upon examination.

It is no secret that benign tumors can degenerate into malignant ones. This process is called malignancy.

The process of malignancy usually takes place when the disease is neglected, then more serious and painful symptoms are possible:

• Strange discharge or bleeding. The presence of blood in saliva, feces or urinary masses, bloody uterine discharge and others indicate the possibility of developing cancer of certain organs.
• Bowel or bladder disorders.
• The appearance of bumps or seals on various parts of the body.
• Education on the skin. For example, ulcers, the appearance of warts, changes in moles and birthmarks.
• Throat changes. For example, a constant cough, wheezing in the voice, unpleasant or painful sensations during swallowing.

These symptoms can be the cause of oncology, but many other diseases are not excluded. Therefore, with any changes in the state of health, it is necessary to consult a doctor and undergo an examination. You may need to be tested for cancer cells.

Signs that distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one

A benign formation differs from a malignant tumor in the process of development and the period of rehabilitation, namely:

1. Growth rate. Benign cells grow much slower than cancer cells. However, as with any statistics, there are exceptions. Selected "bad" formations also increase extremely slowly.
2. Stickiness. In benign tumors, cells stick to each other by producing sticky chemicals. Malignant cells do not secrete such substances, so the tumor is more fragile, as a result, some of the cells can fall off and spread throughout the body with the bloodstream. The result is the growth of metastases.
3. The ability to infect nearby organs. Benign cells in the process of growth displace nearby organs and tissues, but do not penetrate into them. While cancer cells have this ability.
4. Methods of treatment. Cancer treatment often involves radiation and chemotherapy prior to surgical removal. And the treatment of benign tumors allows you to operate immediately.
5. Relapses. Recurrence of malignant tumors is common. And at the same time appears in another organ of the body. Benign recurrences are extremely rare, but if this happens, then a new lesion appears in the same place or very close.
6. Mortality. Unlike a benign, a “bad” tumor has a high mortality rate and exceeds it tenfold.

Commonality between cancer and benign diseases

Despite the big difference between the phenomena, there are common signs:

• Both “bad” and “good” education are capable of rapid growth.
• Both types of tumors are life-threatening. A malignant one always carries this threat, and a benign one, when it appears and grows in a cramped space, for example, in the head, producing pressure and causing irreparable damage to neighboring tissues and structures.
• The likelihood of recurrence of the disease. In both cases, a relapse is likely due to the affected cells remaining after removal.

Etiology

To benign formations in the body leads to a failure at the cellular level. A cell in a healthy body lives for 42 hours. At this time, it appears, grows and dies. Instead, a new one appears, following the same path. If for some reason the cell does not die and continues to grow, then a tumor forms in this place. These reasons include:

• Harmful effects of UV radiation, poisonous vapors and radiation.
• Excessive consumption of unhealthy foods and drinks: alcohol, carbonated drinks, fast food and processed foods.
• Failures in the mode: sleep disturbances, overwork.
• Use of drugs and tobacco products.
• Hormonal imbalances and weakening of the immune system.
• Mechanical damage: bruises, sprains, dislocations and fractures.

Malignant neoplasms develop independently or during the degeneration of benign tumors. Scientists have proven that up to 80% of oncology cases depend on the influence of external factors:

• Influence of carcinogens of chemical or physical origin. Chemicals affect the body when they enter with unhealthy food or at the time of inhalation of hazardous fumes, for example, in cases of work in hazardous industries. The body receives physical carcinogens under the influence of radiation: ionizing or UV rays.
• Genetics. Scientists link the tendency to the formation of cancer with heredity. For example, close relatives have cancer - the probability of the disease in the representatives of the next generation increases three times.
• Oncoviruses. A number of viruses, together with other physical factors, provoke the development of malignant neoplasms.

Growth stages of benign cells

In medicine, three stages of development of neoplasms of a benign nature are defined:

1. Initiation. At this stage, the detection of the disease is extremely rare, because. changes occur at the DNA level and do not entail a deterioration in well-being or other symptoms. The mutation process affects two genes, one of which is responsible for the lifespan of the cell, and the second for its reproduction. When one of the genes is mutated, a benign formation is formed.
2. Promotion. Here there is an active reproduction of cells that have undergone a mutation. Tumor promoters are responsible for the process. The stage lasts for years without showing symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose the disease, leading to the next stage.
3. Progression. This stage is critical for the patient. The growth rate of altered cells increases. As a rule, a benign formation does not pose a threat of death, but affects the organs located in the neighborhood, by squeezing and leading to disruption of the body. Progression aids in making a diagnosis, as the symptoms manifested at the described stage lead the patient to examination.

At the stage of progression, there is a risk of malignancy. The situation is facilitated by external factors that provoke altered cells to rapid growth.

Stages of cancer development

It is customary to distinguish four stages in the development of cancer:

1. The first stage of development corresponds to precise localization. The formation is located in a specific area and does not grow into neighboring tissues.
2. The tumor continues to grow and becomes large, but still remains within the original area. Cases of the appearance of metastases are observed exclusively in the lymph nodes located nearby.
3. The third stage is characterized by the launch of the processes of decay and germination into the walls of the organ. The presence of metastases in neighboring lymph nodes is recorded.
4. The fourth stage corresponds to germination in neighboring tissues and organs. Metastases appear in other organs.

Differences in diagnosis

Differences between malignant and benign tumors are observed not only in symptoms and development, but also in diagnosis.

As a rule, a benign formation does not differ in symptoms that indicate the need for a visit to the doctor. It is usually diagnosed during an examination associated with other complaints or prophylaxis.

Diagnostic methods in such cases depend on where the formation is located and what kind it has. It is more often found during examination on ultrasound and X-ray machines. Further, when collecting the necessary tests, the doctor determines how dangerous the tumor is.

Oncology diagnostics

If, during the examination and history taking, the symptoms that the patient complains about lead to the suspicion of an oncological process, the therapist gives a referral for an examination to the oncology center.

Oncologists use a number of diagnostic methods:

1. Collection of analyses. Blood is taken from the patient for general and biochemical analysis. A table of values ​​showing deviations from the norm helps to determine the condition of the organs. If a neoplasm is detected, biological material is additionally taken from the affected area for a biopsy. It is the most accurate tool to help determine the type of mutational cells and check the degree of their malignancy. The results obtained as a result help to predict the further development of the tumor and choose the most appropriate treatment.
2. Devices for diagnostics. They are selected according to the location of the suspected neoplasm.

CT scan. Diagnostic method based on x-rays. Informative, but not always safe, because. the patient receives some dose of radiation. Therefore, it is often not possible to use this method. On CT, an examination of the lungs, kidneys, joints, brain, abdominal cavity and pelvic organs is performed, if a cyst (cavitary formation) is suspected.

Colonoscopy, bronchoscopy. These effective endoscopic devices make it possible to detect a tumor at an early stage of development. A colonoscopy examines the rectum. Bronchoscopy allows you to find out the condition of the trachea and bronchi.

MRI. Determines oncology in the areas: brain, joints, spine, hip joints, chest. The method is effective and safe. The main advantage and difference in comparison with CT is that there is no exposure to the body, and you can freely schedule an examination as many times as needed.

Mammography is a way to confirm or rule out breast cancer. The method is safe and does not pose a risk of worsening the situation. Contraindications include only pregnancy and lactation. On mammography, the presence of dark areas tells the radiologist about changes in the structure of the mammary glands.

X-ray. X-ray examination reveals the presence of a tumor in the kidneys, liver, bladder, lungs.

ultrasound. An informative method that examines many organs other than hollow ones, such as the intestines or lungs.

Dangers associated with the development of tumors

Despite the fact that benign growths are considered safe, the disease should not be underestimated. As mentioned above, under the influence of harmful factors, tumors degenerate into cancer. Also, neoplasms of a non-hazardous nature are able to grow, affecting other organs, which leads to disruption of the body.

Therefore, in order to avoid meeting with such diseases, it is necessary at least to help the body and exclude from everyday habits:

• destructive habits;
• unhealthy diet;
• sedentary lifestyle.

The human body is able to adapt to starvation. In the process of carbohydrate deficiency, ketosis develops, which promotes the renewal of affected cells. Therefore, the keto diet is prescribed in the treatment complex.

How are these two terms defined?

In the article:

1. Main differences between benign and malignant tumors
2. What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?
3. How can you tell if a tumor is benign or malignant?
4. What is a benign tumor and malignant?

Overview of Neoplasms

The term "benign" is used to describe both medical conditions and tumors, and usually refers to a process that is not particularly dangerous.

How to distinguish a malignant tumor from a benign one?

What is a benign tumor?

For example, a benign increase in blood pressure refers to an increase in blood pressure that is not dangerous, and a benign murmur (also called an innocent heart murmur) is a heart murmur that is likely to cause very few problems in terms of disease or has very low potential. for death.

A benign tumor or mass is one that can be unpleasant but does not usually result in death, although there are exceptions which we will discuss below.

uterine fibroids is a common benign tumor often found in women who are premenopausal. Benign tumors grow locally but cannot spread to other areas of the body. However, if the growth occurs in an enclosed space such as the skull, or in areas of the body where their presence could damage vital organs, they can be dangerous.

What is a malignant tumor or what tumors are malignant?

The term "malignant tumor" is often used as a synonym for the word "dangerous" in medicine. Although it usually refers to a cancerous tumor, it can be used to describe other diseases.

Signs of a malignant tumor

Although the term "benign" usually means less dangerous and less malignant, this distinction is not always made. For example, malignant basal skin cancer has a 99.9% survival rate and little tissue damage (small scar), while some benign brain tumors have a lower survival rate or significantly more disability associated with their presence or surgery to remove them.

Similarities Between Malignant and Benign Tumors

Some similarities between malignant and benign tumors include:

• Both can grow quite large. Size alone does not distinguish between these types of tumors. In fact, benign ovarian tumors over a hundred pounds have been removed. (In contrast, pancreatic cancer can be quite small.)
• Both can be dangerous at times. While benign tumors tend to be more unpleasant, they can be life-threatening in some cases. An example is benign brain tumors. When these tumors grow in a confined space in the brain, they can put pressure on and destroy other brain structures, leading to paralysis, speech problems, seizures, and even death. Some benign tumors, such as benign pheochromocytomas, are isolated, which can also cause life-threatening symptoms.
• Both can be repeated locally. If cells are left behind after surgery, both benign and malignant tumors may appear later in the area of ​​the original tumor, because malignant tumor cells are difficult to remove completely.

Differences between malignant and benign tumors

• Growth rate. In general, malignant tumors grow much faster than benign tumors, but there are exceptions. Some malignant (cancerous) tumors grow very slowly, and some benign tumors grow rapidly.
• The ability to metastasize- Benign tumors expand locally, while malignant tumors can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body via the bloodstream and lymphatic channels.
• Site of recurrence. Although benign tumors can recur locally, i.e., near the site of the original tumors, malignant tumors can recur in distant locations, such as the brain, lungs, bones, and liver, depending on the type of cancer.
• stickiness- Cells in benign tumors produce chemicals (adhesion molecules) that cause them to stick together. Malignant tumor cells do not produce these molecules and can break off and float away to other areas of the body.
• tissue invasion. Generally, malignant tumors tend to invade nearby tissues, while benign tumors do not (although they can enlarge and damage nearby organs by putting pressure on them). A very simple way to think about this is to think of a benign tumor as having a wall or border (literally, a fibrous sheath that surrounds the tumor). This border allows the tumor to expand and push nearby tissues to the side, but does not allow the tumor to invade nearby tissues. In contrast, cancer behaves like "fingers" or "tentacles" that can penetrate nearby tissues. In fact, the Latin word cancer comes from the word crab, used to describe the crab-like or finger-like projections of cancerous tumors into surrounding tissues.
• The appearance of the cell. Under the microscope, cells that are benign often look very different from those that are malignant. One of these differences is that the cell nucleus of cancer cells is often larger and appears darker due to its abundance.
• Effective. Benign tumors are usually removed by surgery, while malignant (cancerous) tumors often require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. These additional procedures are needed to try to reach cancer cells that have spread outside the tumor area or are left behind after tumor surgery.
• Probability of relapse- benign tumors rarely recur after surgery, while malignant tumors recur much more frequently. Surgery to remove a malignant tumor is more difficult than surgery for a benign tumor. Using the finger-like analogy above for cancer, it is much easier to remove a tumor that has a clear fibrous border than a tumor that has invaded nearby tissues with these finger-like protrusions. If, during surgery, cells are left from these fingers, the tumor is more likely to return.
• System effects. Malignant tumors are more likely to have a "systemic" or general effect than benign tumors. Due to the nature of these tumors, symptoms such as weight loss are common. Some types of cancer also release substances that cause effects in the body beyond those caused by the original tumor. An example of this is the paraneoplastic syndrome caused by certain types of cancer, leading to a wide range of physical symptoms from hypercalcemia (increased levels of calcium in the blood) to Cushing's (which in turn causes symptoms such as rounding of the face, stretch marks, and weakened bones).
• Death toll- benign tumors cause about 13,000 deaths per year in the United States. The number of deaths that can be attributed to malignant (cancerous) tumors is more than 575,000.

Areas of Doubt

There are times when it's hard to tell if a tumor is benign or malignant, and it can be very confusing and scary if you're the one living with one of these tumors. Doctors often distinguish between cancerous and non-cancerous tumors under the microscope, and sometimes the differences are very subtle. Sometimes doctors must use other clues, such as where the tumor is located, its rate of growth, and other data to try to make this distinction.

Also, some benign tumors can become malignant tumors over time. Some benign tumors very rarely become malignant tumors, while other benign tumors often turn into malignant tumors. An example of this is adenomatous polyps (adenomas) in the colon. By themselves, they are benign and not dangerous. But over time, they can turn into colon cancer. Removal of these polyps is recommended to reduce the risk of developing colon cancer (adenocarcinoma). For people over 50, it is recommended to have a colonoscopy.

Another confusion is that often normal cells, precancerous cells, and cancerous cells coexist in the same tumor. Depending on where the biopsy is taken, it may not pick up a sample that is representative of the entire tumor; For example, a biopsy may only touch an area of ​​precancerous cells in a tumor that is otherwise cancerous.

Other terms that can mislead this concept include:

• Tumor: Tumor refers to a growth that can be either benign or malignant. It is essentially tissue growth that does not serve any beneficial purpose to the organism and may instead be harmful.
• Weight: The mass can also be benign or malignant. In general, the term mass is used to describe growth that is greater than or equal to 3 cm (1 ½ inches) in diameter.
• knot: The node can also be either benign or malignant. In general, the term knot is used to describe growths that are less than or equal to 3 cm (1 ½ inches) in diameter.
• Neoplasm: Literally translated as "new tissue", the term "neoplasm" is commonly used as a synonym for the term "tumor", and these growths can be either benign or malignant.
• Defeat- the term lesion - often used by physicians - can be misleading to people. The term can mean a benign or malignant tumor or something "abnormal" in the human body, even a rash from a mosquito bite.

Stages of malignant tumors

Understanding Cancer Cells

Naming tumors

Can be understood using the distinction:

Osteoma would be a benign bone tumor, whereas osteosarcoma would be a malignant bone tumor.
Lipoma would be a benign tumor of adipose tissue, but a cancerous tumor would be a liposarcoma.
Adenoma would be a benign tumor, but adenocarcinoma, a malignant tumor.

There are exceptions to this general rule, for example, melanoma, a tumor formed by cancerous melanocytes, is a malignant tumor.

A final word on malignant and benign tumors

Like a malignant tumor, a benign tumor occurs due to a failure in the process of cell division and growth. Because of this, the structure of cells in a certain area changes, certain symptoms appear. A benign neoplasm is characterized by slow growth, it does not affect the body and does not give metastases (they are of particular danger in the disease).

dangerous or not?

Although a benign neoplasm does not belong to dangerous diseases, it requires careful attention to itself, since there are risks:

• malignancy;
• Compression of surrounding organs;
• Synthesis of tumor hormones.

So how is a benign tumor different from a malignant one, what is the difference between these types?

A benign tumor, as a rule, does not affect the body as a whole (with a rare case), it grows very slowly, often having a small size for several years. This neoplasm does not metastasize and does not spread to other organs and tissues, unlike a benign tumor.

But this neoplastic disease can also be dangerous: when it is located in the brain, then with the growth of the tumor, intracranial pressure can be observed, leading to headaches, and in the future, to compression of the vital centers of the brain. This disease is dangerous in case of neglect and with a certain localization of the tumor.

Leading clinics in Israel

You can briefly present the differences between a benign tumor and a malignant one in the form of a table.:

The reasons appearance

If we consider the process of cell formation in the human body, then it can be reduced to a simple scheme: cell growth, development and death after 42 hours. It is replaced by another cell, "living" the same way. If the process is disturbed (ectopic processes occur) and the cell does not die, but continues to grow, a tumor neoplasm occurs (blastomatous growth syndrome occurs).

It has been proven that a benign neoplasm is the result of a mutation of DNA cells, and the following factors lead to this:

• Harmful production;
• Smoking, drinking alcohol, drugs;
• Ionizing radiation;
• Long-term UV radiation;
• Hormonal disbalance;
• Disturbances in the immune system;
• Injuries, fractures, viruses;
• Unhealthy diet and lifestyle.

Studies have shown that everyone has a predisposition to the formation of a benign tumor. Those who have had cases of cancer in the family should be especially attentive to their health. Heredity is another risk factor for tumors. Various stressful situations, combined with a violation of the daily routine and nutrition, can also add to the risk of getting this disease.

External view

Benign tumors look different, they are of different structure and structure:

• A round or oval knot that is similar in structure to a cauliflower or mushroom cap;
• A neoplasm may have a stalk (polyps) if it is associated with body tissues;
• Cystic tumors are elongated and filled with fluid;
• Often, tumors penetrate the tissues and therefore their border is not defined.

Stages of tumor development and growth

The development of a benign tumor can be divided into 3 stages, which have the following names:

• Initiation. This stage is expressed only by the transformation of the DNA cell under the influence of unfavorable factors. Two cells mutate: one is responsible for "immortality", and the second is responsible for its reproduction. If only one gene mutates, the formation remains benign; if two genes are mutated, the formation degenerates into malignant;
• Promotion. At this stage, the altered cells begin to actively multiply, for which the promoters of carcinogenesis are responsible. Promotion can last for several years and hardly manifest itself. But diagnosing a benign formation at the beginning of active division makes it possible to stop the growth and development of the genome. The absence of obvious symptoms makes the detection of the disease problematic, and this leads to the next stage of development;
• Progression. Although this stage is not final, the further condition of the patient depends on it. At this stage, the number of cells that make up this neoplasm rapidly increases. Although it does not pose a danger in itself, it can begin to compress neighboring organs. At this stage, the disease can become the basis for a deterioration in well-being, disruption of the body, the appearance of spots on the skin. Visual signs and physical manifestations of the disease force the patient to consult a doctor. At this stage, a tumor can be detected without special equipment.

This stage is dangerous because in the absence of treatment and under the influence of adverse factors, a non-malignant tumor may degenerate into a malignant one. The transformation of genes continues, cells divide more actively,
and getting into the lumen of the blood vessel, they spread throughout the body - metastasis begins. And this is already diagnosed as a malignant formation.

Tumor growth can also be divided according to its effect on the human body into several types:

What are kinds benign tumors

A benign formation can form from any tissue.

Briefly, they can be classified into the following types:

• Fibroma (fibroblastoma). This neoplasm consists of fibrous connective tissue, has a small amount of spindle-shaped connective tissue cells, fibers and vessels. Most often it occurs in women on the genitals. Fibroma symptoms are menstrual irregularities, painful and prolonged periods, infertility, severe pain during intercourse (usually these symptoms lead to a consultation with a gynecologist). Often there is intermenstrual bleeding, and this leads to a deterioration in well-being, a decrease in hemoglobin levels. Another type of fibroma is subcutaneous, flesh-colored, diagnosed by a dense structure;
• . A formation that practically does not differ from ordinary adipose tissue is called a fatty tumor (it develops from adipose tissue). This type of tumor is characterized by the presence of a capsule. usually in menopausal women and can be huge. It causes discomfort to the patient, as it is mobile and painful and forces the patient to stay in a lying or sitting position for a long period;
• Chondroma. This tumor has the appearance of hard tubercles and consists of cartilage tissue. The cause of the formation may be trauma or tissue damage. It appears both in a single instance and in the plural, usually affecting the limbs. A chondroma is detected during the diagnosis of the skin, it develops rather slowly and may not manifest itself in any way;
• Neurofibromatosis. In another way - Recklinghausen's disease. The disease is characterized by the formation of a large number of age spots and fibroids, which are joined by inflammation of the nerves. Symptoms are pronounced, but diagnosis may be difficult due to the involvement of several tissues in the process;
• . This neoplasm consists of bone tissue, has clear boundaries and usually does not develop into malignant. Osteoma is formed due to the pathological development of the skeleton (characterized by decalcification of bone tissue) and is a congenital disease;
• Myoma. These are single or multiple formations with a dense capsule-type base. The tumor develops in the tissues of the muscles and usually in the female reproductive system. Causes of occurrence: obesity, abortion, hormonal disorders. The fibroid itself is manifested by a malfunction in the menstrual cycle, painful menstruation, and infertility. Myoma is often hereditary. During pregnancy, it can cause miscarriage and fetal death;
• Angioma. A tumor that develops in the blood vessels. It refers to congenital diseases and usually spreads on the cheeks, oral mucosa, lips. It can be manifested by strongly dilated tortuous vessels that have a flat shape, they are visible under the skin, where they are formed. Angiomas under the influence of external factors can turn into a malignant tumor.

This also includes another type of benign neoplasms - hemangiomas, which are congenital spots in which capillaries are dilated. This type of neoplasm is not aggressive;

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Diagnosis

Often they are accidentally discovered during preventive examinations, since patients do not notice obvious symptoms for going to the doctor. Complaints from patients can only be when blood pressure can increase, with brain tumors, when intracranial pressure rises.

Neoplasms can be seen on palpation or ultrasound. To make an accurate diagnosis, whether it's cancer or not, doctors examine blood tests, as well as a piece of tissue that doctors take during a biopsy or laparoscopy.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type, stage of development of the disease and the general condition of the patient.

Remember! Even a benign disease cannot be ignored.

The most commonly used method is surgical removal. Removal occurs with the use of surgical instruments or a laser. Often, when a tumor is removed, an incision is made in the tissue and the mass is exfoliated. This method reduces the risk of infection and reduces the size of the suture.

Surgical intervention is used if:

• The neoplasm is subject to permanent injuries (when it is located on the scalp or on the neck);
• When the tumor interferes with the normal functioning of the body;
• If there is a suspicion of malignancy;
• If the tumor spoils the appearance of the patient.

The tumor is removed completely, if there is a capsule, then along with it. And the removed tissues are carefully examined in the laboratory.

As a rule, the excised tumor does not give relapses (procedures) and the patient's absolute recovery occurs. But sometimes the tumor is considered inoperable due to the impossibility of normal access to it or the general health of the patient, his age, and then another treatment is prescribed.

Cryocoagulation is a more modern method of treatment. It is used in the formation of tumors on the skeleton and soft tissues. First applied, it has spread throughout the world.

Cryotherapy is effective in the presence of tumors in:

• spine;
• limbs;
• chest;
• Pelvic bones;
• Shoulder joints.

This method is based on the effect of very low temperatures on the tumor. The method is constantly being improved - if earlier liquid nitrogen was used for freezing, which destroyed the cells damaged by the tumor, now they use an innovative tool that allows you to remove tumors with argon or helium (they have less effect on the body). This tool creates low temperatures (up to - 180 degrees).

The advantages of this technique include:

• Minimal impact on the body;
• Relapse prevention;
• No contraindications;
• Simple preparatory part;
• Minimal tissue and bone damage.

This method can successfully replace radiation (or another type of radiation) and chemotherapy, which are done in the presence of tumors, but cryocoagulation has a less negative impact on a person. Side effects are present, but not so many: nausea, hair loss, fatigue.

Replacement therapy is used when the tumor is small and there is no tendency to develop. It is also taken into account that many tumors develop when the hormonal system fails. During this type of treatment, the patient is under the supervision of an oncologist and undergoes a systematic examination.

Diet for tumors

Of great importance for the effectiveness of treatment is the observance of a healthy lifestyle, especially nutrition. When diagnosing a tumor, it is necessary to abandon bad habits - smoking and drinking alcohol, completely remove coffee and strong tea from the diet. A diet is also prescribed, which helps restore immunity and prevents the chance of the formation of a malignant tumor. For this, fatty, smoked, spicy foods are excluded from the diet. Meals in the diet should be lean and low-fat, with plenty of greens and vegetables.

Also, additional funds from traditional medicine are introduced into the diet.

Some folk methods can help boost immunity and improve the patient's body:

• Decoctions of viburnum berries and calendula flowers;
• carrot juice;
• Yogurt.

Prevention of the disease and its prognosis

Disease prevention in oncology is:

• Compliance with a healthy lifestyle - healthy eating and the absence of bad habits;
• The obligatory presence of proper rest, regular sleep and lack of stress;
• Timely treatment of hormonal imbalance, sexual relations with one partner, no abortions;
• Regular examinations by specialists for the timely diagnosis of the disease.

The prognosis of benign diseases is very favorable, the main thing is to consult a doctor in time and start treatment, which leads to a complete recovery. It must be remembered that most malignant neoplasms degenerate from benign ones, so the main thing is not to start the process. And the growth of malignant neoplasms in the body can lead to elementary non-compliance with the formation of a tumor.

Related questions

What does an incurable patient mean?

This means that there is no cure for such a patient, and only palliative (supportive) treatment is provided to him.

What is "complete tumor resorption"?

This means "tumor resorption", which is expected when radiation therapy is used to treat certain types of tumors.

Cancer cells are violators of all the rules of cell division. A single atypical cell among millions of "decent" brothers can lead to the development of a cancerous tumor.

The sequence of processes occurring in the body that lead to cancer are complex and variable. A combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors can turn a normal cell into a pathological one.

What is the mechanism of tumor formation?

Our body is a unique system that maintains a balance between new and old cells. Our body is made up of countless cells. They differ in structure and function. However, regardless of whether this cell is heart or blood, it matures from its earlier predecessors. All cells are programmed to die on time. Their death is carefully controlled by the whole organism. Cell death is called apoptosis.

Division, maturation and apoptosis are essential conditions for cell life. The accumulation of tumor cells occurs for several reasons: due to uncontrolled division, due to the impossibility of cells to mature and turn into their highly professional descendants (they simply remain at the development stage), and the impossibility of dying in time.

Tumors are clones. Tumor cells originate from one and recreate copies of the original cell. Damage to genes leads to disruption of division, maturation, and programmed death. When the body's defense system fails, the damaged cell survives and forms many clones.

Cancer cells not only violate the rules of division, but also do not respond to all sorts of “stop” signals coming from our body. For example, cell growth occurs without estrogen, which is the normal condition for growth. Most cells can report that they are squeezed by other cells, but cancer cells ignore this signal and continue to multiply.

Tumors are such a diverse phenomenon that it is sometimes difficult to classify and divide them into groups. The causes of occurrence, the mechanism of growth, location and distribution determine the type of tumor. In this regard, tumors are divided into benign and malignant.

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

To benign doctors include neoplasms that do not carry a big threat and have a favorable prognosis for life. Such tumors grow slowly, they lack the ability to relapse and metastasize, they do not grow into neighboring tissues and organs. Often, benign tumors stop growing and begin to develop in the opposite direction.

However, all this does not mean that such tumors are harmless. For example, a benign tumor of the endocrine gland can cause hormonal imbalances, and in the small intestine, if large, it can compress the intestinal loops, causing intestinal obstruction.

Malignant tumors, as the name implies, are extremely dangerous for the body. They are characterized by rapid growth, the ability to spread throughout the body, giving metastases, and also to grow into neighboring tissues and organs. A malignant tumor can completely disable the organs and vital systems of the human body from normal functioning.

A malignant tumor does not always have a clear difference from a benign one. In this regard, separate groups of neoplasms are distinguished: locally destructive and potentially malignant. The first have all the features of malignant, except for metastasis