What does a benign tumor indicate?

A benign tumor is defined as a mass of cells that grows in a controlled manner and does not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to distant parts of the body. The key aspect of benign tumors is that they are non-cancerous, meaning they do not possess the aggressive properties associated with malignant tumors. Generally, benign tumors can often be left untreated unless they cause significant health issues, such as pressure on organs or cosmetic concerns.

Understanding this characteristic helps define their behavior and impact on health, differentiating them from malignant tumors that are cancerous and may necessitate more aggressive treatment options. This context is essential for comprehending the implications of a diagnosis involving a benign tumor.