Written By: Camryn Keeble
Neoplasm Vs Malignant Neoplasm
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that forms in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. This type of cancer is aggressive and can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Knowing the difference between a neoplasm and a malignant neoplasm, like mesothelioma, is important for determining the best treatment options and understanding the potential risks and complications associated with the disease.
Medically Reviewed By
Karen Ritter, RN BSN
Registered Nurse
Medically Reviewed By
Karen Ritter, RN BSN
Registered Nurse
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Neoplasm
A neoplasm, or tumor, is an abnormal growth of cells in the body. This abnormal cell growth can form benign or malignant tumors. Benign neoplasms are not cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant neoplasms, or cancerous tumors, tend to have uncontrolled cell growth that is aggressive and can invade nearby tissues and organs. They can also spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Malignant Neoplasm
A malignant neoplasm, or cancerous tumor, can create uncontrolled cell growth that has the ability to spread to other parts of the body. This can make it difficult to treat and can lead to serious complications or even death.
Most mesothelioma cases are malignant neoplasms. This means that mesothelioma cancerous cells are invasive and can spread to areas outside the area they developed. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer, and treatment options can often be limited. Surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy and radiation are treatment options often used to treat mesothelioma, but the prognosis for this disease is often poor, especially in later stages.
The only known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos. Understanding the difference between a neoplasm and a malignant neoplasm, like mesothelioma, is important when it comes to the diagnosis and treatment of this rare cancer. It is important to see your doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, abdominal pain or fatigue – early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival.
Sources & Author
- Neoplasm. National Cancer Institute. Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/neoplasm. Accessed 4/24/2023.
- Malignant Neoplasm. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22319-malignant-neoplasm#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20malignant%20neoplasm,beyond%20its%20point%20of%20origin. Accessed 4/24/2023.
- Malignant Mesothelioma. National Cancer Institute. Retrieved from: https://www.cancer.gov/types/mesothelioma#:~:text=Malignant%20mesothelioma%20is%20a%20cancer,mesothelioma%20treatment%20and%20clinical%20trials. Accessed 4/23/2023.
- Mesothelioma. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mesothelioma/symptoms-causes/syc-20375022. Accessed 4/22/2023.
