- Causes: Non-cancerous tumors, also known as benign tumors, can develop due to various factors including genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, chronic inflammation, exposure to radiation, and certain infections.
- Presentation: The presentation of non-cancerous tumors varies depending on their location and size. Common symptoms may include a palpable mass or lump, pain, pressure on surrounding tissues or organs, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and neurological symptoms if affecting the nervous system.
- Investigation: The investigation of non-cancerous tumors involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as imaging studies (MRI, CT scan, ultrasound), biopsy for tissue analysis, and blood tests to assess tumor markers.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis of non-cancerous tumors is confirmed through imaging studies and biopsy results. Pathological examination of biopsy samples helps distinguish benign tumors from malignant ones. Additionally, healthcare providers consider clinical symptoms and patient history in making a diagnosis.
- Treatment: Treatment options for non-cancerous tumors depend on factors such as tumor size, location, symptoms, and potential risks. In many cases, observation with regular monitoring may be sufficient. However, treatment modalities may include surgical removal, minimally invasive procedures, radiation therapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the individual case.
Abnormal growths of cells that are non cancerous are called benign tumors. These growths serve no purpose and grow only in one place. They also do not spread to other parts of the body. In other words, a benign or a non-cancerous tumor is not a malignant tumor and is incapable of causing cancer. Benign tumors have a very slow growth rate unlike malignant tumors. They have normal cell features and have an outer fibrous sheath of connective tissue. Growth of may benign tumors together can compress tissues resulting in nerve damage, ischemia, necrosis and specific damage to the organ. Some examples of benign tumors are moles and uterine fibroids. When a benign tumor is surgically treated and removed, it usually does not grow back.
Difference between benign and malignant at a glance
| Benign | Malignant |
|---|---|
| Potentially non-invasive | potentially invasive |
| Do not metastize | They metastize |
| Grow very slowly | They grow fast |
| Lower health risk | Higher health risk |
| Well differentiated | Undifferentiated |
Benign Tumor Causes
- Trauma or injury
- Diet
- Stress
- Heredity and genetics
- Exposure to radiation
Symptoms Of Non Cancerous Tumor
Usually the symptoms of benign tumor depend upon the location of the tumor. But some possible symptoms are outlined as below.
- Weight loss
- Night sweats
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Chills
- Discomfort
- Loss of appetite
Non Cancerous Tumor Diagnosis
An exposed tumor may be diagnosed as non-malignant upon physical exam. Diagnosis of benign tumors is done generally to establish their potential malignancy. Some tests that are conducted are mentioned below.
Ultrasound :An ultrasound scan helps to detect whether the mass of tumor is solid or liquid.
CT scan :Images from different angles is taken to view the tumor for malignancy or any potential invasive capacity.
X-ray :One of the oldest methods used to diagnose any internal problem with the body including a tumor.
MRI :Magnetic Resonance Imaging is done using high powered magnets to obtain detailed images of the body’s soft tissues.
Treatment :a vast majority of the benign tumours will require surgical removal.