The word “tumor” refers to an abnormal mass of tissue that forms when cells grow and divide more than they should or do not die when they should. These masses can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). An example of a benign growth is a lipoma, a fatty lump that develops under the skin. Conversely, a carcinoma is a malignant tumor originating in epithelial tissue.
Understanding the nature of such growths is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions. Early detection often improves prognosis significantly, particularly in cases of malignancy. Historically, the study of these anomalous masses has led to advances in medical imaging, surgical techniques, and targeted therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.