Benign

Benign tumor of the skin

A spontaneous growth of tissue which forms an abnormal mass is called a tumor. A tumor that is noninvasive and noncancerous is referred to as a benign tumor.

Definition

The term "benign" refers to a condition, tumor, or growth that is NOT cancerous. This means that it does not spread to other parts of the body or destroy nearby tissue. Benign tumors usually grow slowly.

In general, a benign tumor or condition is not harmful. However, this is not always the case. If a benign tumor is big enough, it can press on nearby blood vessels, nerves, or organs, or otherwise cause problems. This is especially true for benign brain tumors.

The opposite of benign is malignant.

See also:

  • Disease

    Tumor

    A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign).

Review date:
February 23, 2009
Reviewed by:
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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