Many people discover lumps and bumps on their bodies, and most of them are benign. However, some could be cancerous. It’s essential to know the difference between benign and malignant masses so that you can seek appropriate medical attention.

In this article, we will learn how to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors.

What is a benign tumor?

A benign tumor is a mass of cells that doesn’t invade nearby tissues or spread to other parts of the body. These lumps usually grow slowly and tend to be spherical or oval in shape.

They are often encapsulated, meaning that they are surrounded by a fibrous sac that separates them from surrounding tissues.

Some common types of benign tumors include:.

Fibroadenoma: A firm, round, and mobile lump that forms in the breast.
Lipoma: A soft, doughy, and noncancerous lump that usually forms on the back, shoulders, or neck.
Osteochondroma: A cartilage-capped bony projection that forms on bones near growth plates in children and adolescents.

What is a malignant tumor?

A malignant tumor, on the other hand, is a mass of cells that invades surrounding tissues and spreads to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. These tumors can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

Some common types of malignant tumors include:.

Melanoma: A type of skin cancer that can spread quickly to other parts of the body.
Breast cancer: A tumor that forms in the breast tissue and can spread to lymph nodes and other areas of the body.
Lung cancer: A tumor that forms in the lungs and can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain.

How to tell the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

It’s not always easy to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors. However, certain features may indicate that a lump is cancerous, including:.

Size: In general, malignant tumors tend to be larger than benign tumors.
Shape: Malignant tumors may have irregular shapes, while benign tumors tend to be round or oval.
Texture: Benign tumors are usually smooth and uniform, whereas malignant tumors may feel lumpy or uneven.
Growth rate: Malignant tumors tend to grow more quickly than benign tumors.
Pain: Benign tumors are usually painless, but some malignant tumors may cause pain or discomfort.

If you discover a lump or bump, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform various tests to determine whether the lump is benign or malignant, including:.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans.
Biopsy, which involves removing a sample of tissue for further analysis.
Blood tests, which can help detect certain markers that may indicate cancer.

What are the treatment options?

If your doctor diagnoses you with a benign tumor, you may not need any treatment unless the lump is causing discomfort or affecting your appearance.

If you have a malignant tumor, treatment usually involves surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. The type of treatment depends on the location and stage of the cancer and other factors such as your age and overall health.

Conclusion

Although most lumps and bumps are benign, it’s important to be aware of the signs of cancerous tumors. If you notice any unusual lumps, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Early detection of cancer can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment.