“Understanding Benign Tumors – Non-Cancerous Growths You Should Know”

A benign tumor is a non-cancerous growth of cells in the body. Unlike malignant (cancerous) tumors, benign tumors do not invade nearby tissues or spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.

However, depending on their size and location, they can still cause health problems.

🔹 Key Features of Benign Tumors:

• Grow slowly compared to malignant tumors.

• Usually well-circumscribed (have clear boundaries).

• Do not spread to distant organs.

• Cells often look similar to normal cells under a microscope.

• Can sometimes press on nearby organs, nerves, or blood vessels, causing symptoms.

🔹 Examples of Common Benign Tumors:

• Lipoma – fatty tissue growth (common under the skin).

• Fibroma – connective tissue tumor.

• Adenoma – glandular tissue tumor (e.g., thyroid, colon).

• Hemangioma – blood vessel tumor.

• Meningioma – tumor in the membranes around the brain/spinal cord.

• Osteochondroma – bone/cartilage tumor.

🔹 Possible Symptoms:

• A lump or swelling.

• Pain or discomfort if pressing on structures.

• Functional issues (e.g., adenoma in pituitary gland may affect hormones).

🔹 Treatment:

• Many benign tumors require no treatment unless they cause symptoms.

•  Surgical removal may be needed if:

• Tumor causes pain, obstruction, or cosmetic concerns.

• There is a chance it could turn malignant (rare but possible in some types).