How to distinguish a malignant tumor from a benign one based on symptoms? How to distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one. How to determine a malignant or benign tumor.

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When the mechanisms that control cell growth, differentiation and division in the human body are disrupted, pathological formations arise, which can be benign or malignant. The basis of the process is considered to be genetic damage leading to DNA damage.

What is a benign tumor

This is a disease that develops as a result of impaired cell division. In a certain area where their structure changes, a benign formation occurs. A feature of the pathology is slow growth. Often the neoplasm retains its original size for several years, after which it can develop into malignant or disappear completely. Benign neoplasms can be distinguished by the following characteristics:

the formation is mobile and not connected to neighboring tissues;
when pressing, pain is felt;
with internal pathological processes, sleep disturbance and fatigue are noted;
external formations on the skin or mucous membranes sometimes bleed.

Benign tumor developing from adipose tissue

One of the most common (40%) neoplasms is lipoma. A benign tumor that develops from adipose tissue occurs everywhere: in the lumbar region, on the hips, arms and abdomen. Lipoma can come out in the membranes of the brain, between muscles, in the mammary glands or on internal organs. There are multiple and single fatty growths (bumps). There are also numerous variants of fatty tumors that differ from lipomas in morphological features:

myelolipoma;
subcutaneous angiolipoma;
spindle cell lipoma;
benign lipoblastomatosis;
hibernoma.

Benign connective tissue tumor

A benign connective tissue tumor—fibroma or cyst—is often found. They can grow on vascular, cartilage and bone tissue, in the dermis and striated muscle tissue. The consistency of fibroids varies - from dense to densely elastic. There are multiple (fibromatosis) or single lesions of connective or smooth muscle tissue. A more common location of fibroma is observed on such organs as:

uterus;
soft tissues of the legs, arms, neck, face;
hard tissues of the crown, forehead;
mammary gland;
ovaries;
language;
lungs;
bones.

Find out more about what it is.

What is the difference between a benign tumor and a malignant one?

Sometimes it is difficult to immediately see the difference between one or another neoplasm, so their clinical characteristics should be taken into account. The main difference between a benign tumor and a malignant one is the slow growth of the former. They are not capable of relapses and processes called metastasis, do not grow into neighboring tissues and organs, do not affect the health of the body and give a relatively favorable prognosis. With malignant formation, cells divide uncontrollably and repeatedly; they are capable of metastasizing to other organs and tissues.

Can a benign tumor become malignant?

If the neoplasm is not malignant, then in most cases with timely treatment you can get rid of it forever. Its local effect is only that signs of compression or pushing aside of healthy tissue may appear. Can a benign tumor become malignant? There is always a risk. Malignancy or malignancy may occur within a year or several ten years from the onset of the pathology. The most dangerous in this regard are considered to be adenomas, polyps of the gastrointestinal tract, papillomas of the urinary tract, and some types of nevi.

Types of benign tumors

At the cellular level, any human organ can undergo histological changes. Pathology can develop in lymphoid, nervous, and cartilaginous tissues. Depending on the degree of neglect of the disease, all neoplasms have a gradation: severe, moderate, mild. There is also a classification of benign tumors:

epithelial (hepatocellular adenoma of the liver, lymphoma, melanoma, osteoma, rhabdomyoma, chondroma);
non-epithelial (hemangioma, fibroma, leiomyoma, uterine fibroids, angiomyolipoma);
others (juxtaglomerular cell formation).

Benign brain tumor

Primary brain formations develop from nerve tissues present in the cranial cavity. Some of them are functionally active and produce various hormonal substances. A striking example is pituitary adenoma, which over time leads to the development of endocrine diseases. A benign brain tumor with timely intervention provides a chance for a high life expectancy. The most common types of brain damage:

pituitary adenoma;
meningioma;
schwannoma;
astrocytoma;
oligodendroglioma;
ependymoma;
Craniopharyngioma.

Benign skin tumors

A characteristic feature of skin neoplasms is their solitary appearance and slow growth. A benign skin tumor is not dangerous, but if it begins to change color or grow, you should immediately consult a doctor. Such neoplasms include:

seborrheic wart;
keratoacanthoma;
papilloma;
pigmented nevus;
lipoma;
angioma;
dermatofibroma.

Benign lung tumor

This neoplasm looks like a round or oval nodule that appears on the lungs, bronchi or pleura. They occur in women and men with equal frequency, and account for 10% of the total number of formations. Benign lung tumors can be deep or superficial. They are accompanied by purulent sputum, profuse sweating, increased temperature, compaction of lymphoid tissue, and enlarged lymph nodes. Depending on their structure, they are distinguished:

dysembryogenetic (teratomas, hamartomas);
neuroectodermal (neurofibromas, neuromas);
epithelial (from glandular epithelium: adenomas, papillomas);
mesodermal (lipomas, fibromas).

Signs of a benign tumor

Each disease has its own symptoms. At the initial stage, symptoms of a benign tumor in adults and children may be absent altogether, or in the acute period there may be general symptoms - deterioration of health, loss of appetite, weakness. When it passes, the disease is asymptomatic again. Depending on the type of neoplasm, the signs are different, for example:

Epithelioma. Occurs on the face, neck, scalp, shoulder girdle, and is asymptomatic.
Pathology of the thyroid gland. The patient feels drowsiness, shortness of breath, nodes can be felt during palpation, but they do not hurt.
Prostate adenoma. In men, urination disorder, thirst, loss of appetite, polyuria.
Breast fibroma. It is characterized by a hard, spherical lump under the skin of the breast.

Treatment of benign tumors

In many cases, doctors choose to wait and see to make sure the tumor does not grow. Treatment of a benign tumor is necessary when any complications arise. For this, a surgical method is used, the purpose of which is to remove the formation without damaging adjacent tissues. Drug or radiation therapy is less commonly used.

Removal of a benign tumor

Modern medicine offers many ways to remove tumors. The most effective is complete excision of the pathological tissue to prevent further spread. As a rule, relapses do not occur after such an operation. Removal of a benign tumor is carried out using laser technology, and the tissue is excised according to the principle of enucleation.

Another popular method of lump removal is cryocoagulation. The principle of operation is to apply low temperature (- 170 °C) to the affected area. The new technology helps to accurately determine the area of influence, hitting exclusively tumor cells without affecting healthy tissue. After such a manipulation, the patient sometimes experiences side effects: vomiting, nausea, baldness.

Is chemotherapy used for benign tumors?

Chemistry is prescribed if the tumor has a cancerous or precancerous condition or after its removal. During this procedure, the area of affected cells is exposed to pharmacological agents. In terms of effectiveness, it is second only to the surgical method. Is chemotherapy used for benign tumors? Since the main purpose of chemotherapy is to kill cancer cells, if they are absent, the procedure is not prescribed.

Treatment of benign tumors with folk remedies

With the help of folk recipes, a tumor can be removed if it arose as a result of injury, blow or bruise. To do this you will need lard and chaga infusion (1:1). The mixture should be brought to a boil, removed from heat and left for a day. Apply 1-2 times a day until the condition improves. It should be remembered that independent treatment of benign tumors with folk remedies is unacceptable. Before undertaking any therapy, you should consult your doctor.

Attention! The information presented in the article is for informational purposes only. The materials in the article do not encourage self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and give treatment recommendations based on the individual characteristics of a particular patient.

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Benign tumor - types, symptoms and treatment. The difference between benign formations and malignant ones

If cancer is diagnosed at the second stage, then from 70 to 80% of patients recover; at the third stage, the chance is significantly reduced to 30 - 35%. However, identifying cancer in the first stages can be very difficult, since it has practically no signs. However, if you listen to your own body, a tumor can be detected.

Another difficulty in treatment lies in the fact that the disease detected in the first stages does not require large material costs. Whereas in the future, only big money for the latest drugs and numerous treatment procedures will help cure cancer.

From the very beginning of its formation to its final outcome, cancer lives in the body for about 10 years. Today there are about 200 types of malignant tumors. And each of them can be cured if you consult a doctor in time. 80% of cancers are considered to be man-made. Those with strong immunity, a healthy lifestyle and an optimistic mood for this disease are difficult to approach.

Cancer can also be caused by environmental pollution, unclean water, polluted air and a sedentary lifestyle. Poor nutrition also gives impetus to the formation of a malignant tumor. Therefore, 75% of food should be predominantly of plant origin and only 25% of animal origin. People who regularly eat overly “effective” diets also contribute to tumor formation. Relatives of cancer patients are also at risk.

Symptoms indicating cancer

Despite all these statistics, you could already significantly ruin your health. Moreover, environmental pollution or an unhealthy lifestyle do not determine 100% cancer formation. A malignant tumor affects everyone without exception, regardless of status, place of residence and age. And you should be wary if you regularly notice some signs of this disease:

If your ulcerative wounds do not heal for a long time;

If causeless bleeding and spotting occur;

If lumps or foreign formations on the body are felt;

If digestion or swallowing reflex is impaired;

If you have one large or several new moles with an unusual color, shape or size. Cancer can manifest itself in an existing mole, which in turn will also change color, shape or size;

If you have been suffering from cough, shortness of breath and hoarseness for a long time;

If you regularly suffer from headaches;

If you have lost significant weight over several months and have absolutely no appetite;

If you feel pain in your bones;

If you get tired very quickly, feel weak throughout your body;

If for no apparent reason your temperature rises;

If you start getting sick often;

If sweating and dizziness occur;

If swelling is felt in the area of the lymph nodes. In the neck, armpits, groin areas;

If cracks and ulcers form on the skin, tongue, gums, palate, and so on;

If you cannot swallow food normally;

If you feel a regular feeling of heaviness in your stomach or abdomen;

If pain appears in the chest, the cough is characterized by the presence of bloody discharge;

If you notice a sharp decline in vision.

Each of these signs should be a reason to go to the hospital. And this does not mean that you will be given a terrible diagnosis. These signs can also appear in other diseases that should also be treated. Since chronic diseases also provoke cancer.

According to medical professionals, a tomography of the entire body should be performed at least once every two years. This way you can prevent the occurrence of serious diseases. And not only malignant tumors.

In some cases, it is enough to undergo an ultrasound or fluorography, as well as an x-ray and microscopic examination of sputum.

You should also know how many stages of cancer development there are:

1. The first stage is characterized by DNA damage, which is treated with ultraviolet radiation, radioactive and chemical substances. The initial stage is characterized by uncontrolled cell division, but almost 100% of the time it can be cured immediately.

2. At the second stage, these same “fertile” cells begin to form a tumor and grow. But nevertheless, 70-80% of the tumor can be cured.

3. At the third stage, cancer cells are able to form metastases, which can spread throughout the body through the lymph and blood. However, the tumor can still be cured in 30-35% of cases.

4. But at the fourth stage there is practically no chance of recovery. In this case, cancer spreads everywhere - to nearby and other organs, cancer affects the entire body, tumors appear in different parts of the body.

Therefore, identifying cancer in the early stages of development should be everyone’s task!

Malignant tumors: signs, causes and methods of treatment

Everyone is afraid to hear a terrible diagnosis like cancer. And if previously such malignant processes were found only in the elderly, today such pathology often affects young people under 30 years of age.

Is a malignant tumor cancer or not?

The formation of malignant origin is the uncontrolled reproduction and growth of abnormal cells that contribute to the destruction of healthy tissue. Malignant tumors are dangerous to general health, and in some cases pose a threat to life, since they metastasize to distant organs and are capable of invasion into nearby tissues.

How is it different from a benign tumor?

A distinctive feature of benign oncology is the fact that such a tumor is located in a kind of capsule that separates and protects the surrounding tissue from the tumor.

The malignant nature of the tumor gives it the ability to grow into neighboring tissues, causing severe pain and destruction, metastasizing throughout the body.

Abnormal cells easily divide and spread throughout the body through the bloodstream, stopping in different organs and forming a new tumor there, identical to the first one. Such neoplasms are called metastases.

Poor quality formations are divided into several types:

Carcinoma or cancer. Diagnosed in more than 80% of cases of such oncology. The formation is most often formed in the intestine, lungs, mammary or prostate gland, and esophagus. A similar tumor is formed from epithelial cells. Appearance varies depending on location. In general, they are a node with a bumpy or smooth surface, hard or soft structure;
Sarcoma. Grows from cells of muscle and bone connective tissue. It is quite rare (1% of all low-quality oncologies) and can be located on the skin, uterus, bones, joints, lungs or soft tissues of the thigh, etc. This tumor is characterized by rapid growth and metastasis. Often, even with early diagnosis and removal, it recurs again;
Lymphoma. Formed from lymphatic tissues. Such neoplasms lead to disturbances in organic functions, since the lymphatic system, designed to protect the body from infectious lesions, cannot perform its main tasks in the presence of a tumor;
Glioma. It is formed in the brain, growing from glial nervous system cells. Usually accompanied by severe headache and dizziness. In general, the manifestations of such a tumor depend on its location in the brain;
Melanoma. It grows from melanocytes and is localized mainly on the skin of the face, neck, and limbs. It is rare (approximately 1% of all malignant tumors), characterized by a tendency to early metastasis;
Leukemia. Grows from bone marrow stem cells. Leukemia is essentially a cancer of blood-forming cells;
Teratoma. It consists of embryonic cells, formed during the prenatal period under the influence of pathogenic factors. Most often localized in the testicles, ovaries, brain and sacrum;
Choriocarcinoma. Develops from placental tissues. It is found only in women, mainly in the uterus, tubes, ovaries, etc.;
Malignant formations that develop in children under 5 years of age. These include various tumors such as osteosarcoma, retinoblastoma, lymphoma, nephroblastoma or neuroblastoma, nervous system tumors or leukemia.

Causes

The main predisposing factor to the formation of malignant tumors is heredity. If several cancer patients are discovered in a family, then all members of the household can be registered.

Equally important is the presence of nicotine addiction. Unfortunately, even a photo of lungs affected by cancer placed on a pack of cigarettes does not discourage smokers from this addiction. Tobacco smoking most often leads to the development of lung or stomach cancer.

In general, experts identify only three groups of factors predisposing to the development of cancer:

Biological – this group includes various viruses;
Chemical – this includes carcinogens and toxic substances;
Physical – represent a group of factors, including UV radiation, radiation exposure, etc.

All of the above factors are external in nature. Experts consider genetic predisposition to be internal factors.

In general, the mechanism of cancer development is quite simple. Our cells live for a certain time, after which they die as programmed, and new ones come to replace them. This is how the body is constantly renewed. For example, red cells in the blood (or erythrocytes) live about 125 days, and platelets - only 4 days. This is a physiological norm.

But in the presence of pathogenetic factors, various failures occur and obsolete cells, instead of dying, begin to multiply on their own, producing abnormal offspring, from which tumor formations are formed.

How to identify a malignant neoplasm?

To determine a malignant tumor process, it is necessary to have an idea of its symptoms. So, malignant oncology is characterized by the following main features:

Pain. It can appear at the beginning of the tumor process or occurs with its further development. Often there is pain in bone tissue, and there is a tendency to fractures;
Signs of weakness and chronic fatigue. Such symptoms arise gradually and are accompanied by lack of appetite, hypersweating, sudden weight loss, and anemia;
State of fever. This sign often indicates systemic spread of the cancer process. Malignant oncology affects the immune system, which begins to fight hostile cells, which is why a state of fever appears;
If the tumor does not develop inside the body, but close to the surface, then a palpable swelling or induration can be detected;

In the photo you can see a lump on the skin, this is what a malignant tumor looks like - basal cell carcinoma

Against the background of a malignant tumor, a tendency to bleeding may develop. For stomach cancer - bloody vomiting, for colon cancer - feces with blood, for uterine cancer - bloody vaginal discharge, for prostate cancer - semen with blood, for bladder cancer - bloody urine, etc.;
Against the background of a malignant tumor process, enlargement of the lymph nodes occurs, neurological symptoms appear, the patient is often exposed to various inflammations, any rashes on the skin or jaundice, ulcers, etc. may appear.

General symptoms increase gradually, supplemented by new signs; the condition gradually worsens, which is associated with toxic damage to the body by tumor waste products.

Pathways of metastasis

Malignant tumors tend to spread to other organs, i.e. metastasize. Typically, the metastasis stage occurs already in the later stages of the tumor process. In general, metastasis occurs in 3 ways: hematogenous, lymphogenous or mixed.

The hematogenous route is the spread of the cancer process through the bloodstream, when tumor cells enter the vascular system and are transferred to other organs. Such metastasis is typical for sarcomas, chorionepitheliomas, hypernephromas, lymphomas and tumors of hematopoietic tissue;
The lymphatic route involves metastasis of tumor cells through the lymph flow through the lymph nodes and further into nearby tissues. This route of spread of metastases is typical for internal tumors such as cancer of the uterus, colon, stomach, esophagus, etc.
The mixed path involves lymphogenous-hematogenous metastasis. Such spread of the tumor process is typical for most malignant oncologies (breast, lung, thyroid, ovarian or bronchial cancer).

Stages of development

During diagnosis, not only the type of malignant tumor is determined, but also the stage of its development. There are 4 stages in total:

Stage I is characterized by small tumor sizes and the absence of tumor invasion into adjacent tissues. The tumor process does not involve the lymph nodes;
Stage II of a malignant tumor process is characterized by a clear definition of the tumor within its initial localization, although the presence of single metastases to regional lymph nodes is possible;
Stage III is characterized by tumor growth into the tissues surrounding it. Metastasis in regional lymph nodes becomes multiple;
At stage IV, metastasis spreads not only to the lymph nodes, but also to distant organs.

Diagnostic methods

Diagnosis of malignant oncology involves the following procedures:

X-ray examination, which includes:

X-ray computed tomography;
Endoscopic examination;
Ultrasound diagnostics;
Nuclear magnetic resonance;

Radioisotope diagnostics of tumors of malignant origin, which includes:

Thermography;
Radioimmunoscintigraphy;
Detection of tumor markers;
Study of the level of human chorionic gonadotropin;
Level of carcinoembryonic antigen, etc.

Treatment

Malignant tumors are treated by three methods: medication, radiation and surgery.

Drug therapy consists of the use of specialized drugs for chemotherapy:

Antimetabolites like Methotrexate, Ftorafur, etc.;
Alkylating agents – Benzotef, Cyclophosphamide, etc.;
Herbal medicines like Colhamine, etc.;
Antitumor antibiotic drugs – Chrysomalin, Bruneomycin, etc.

2 Comments

It must be additionally said that the final diagnosis of “cancer” can only be made based on the results of morphological studies - histology and immunohistochemistry. Any x-ray diagnostics only helps to make a diagnosis and determine the parameters of the tumor. Although, in an ideal case, radiation diagnosticians and pathomorphologists work together (this option is now implemented in a private sector, at UNIM). And then, based on the results of morphology, a decision is made.

Yes, until an accurate diagnosis of cancer is made, it will take at least 15 days until they begin treatment for another 15 days, so we are wasting precious time.

How to determine whether a brain tumor is benign or malignant

How to identify a malignant tumor

A malignant tumor is a neoplasm whose cells divide uncontrollably and are prone to metastasis. In the initial stages, it is almost impossible to detect it by external signs. In order to identify the disease in the early stages, when it is most easily treated, it is necessary to conduct a medical examination for prevention.

How to identify a malignant tumor?

Diagnosis of a malignant tumor

First of all, take a blood test for tumor markers. This type of diagnosis helps determine the presence of malignant cells in the body. If the analysis confirms the presence of tumor markers in the blood, then an additional series of studies is prescribed.

Be diagnosed with a malignant tumor using ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, radiography and mammography. The examination method directly depends on the organ that needs to be checked. For example, a malignant tumor of the mammary gland can be detected using mammography, and malignant neoplasms of the larynx are detected using microlaryngoscopy or fibrolaryngoscopy. In the first example, the organ is examined with an endoscope, in the second case with a microscope. Malignant tumors of the fundus, body of the uterus and its cervix are diagnosed using an endoscope. A similar method is used to test the colon for cancer. When using all of these methods, a tissue sample is used to detect a tumor, which is sent for a biopsy. This procedure is final, it allows you to make a final diagnosis.

Determine the presence of malignant tumors using immunomagnetic enrichment technology. Currently, this is the most modern method for diagnosing this type of disease. To do this, you need to take a blood test, in which, during a laboratory examination, the amount of Veridex CellSearch is determined. A large number of cells of this type indicates a 100% probability of the presence of a malignant tumor in the body.

Later, advanced stages of the disease are determined by palpation during self-examination or during a medical examination.

I would like to note that, first of all, everyone should not be concerned about the question: How to determine a malignant tumor? , but how to prevent its occurrence. To do this, you need to maintain the normal state of the immune system. It is she who recognizes and immediately destroys all unnecessary and foreign cells.

How to identify a brain tumor?

One of the most serious diseases today is a brain tumor. The outcome of the disease directly depends on the structure, type, location and size of the tumor. Only modern diagnostics can save a person’s life.

Diagnosis of a brain tumor

Any tumor can be either benign or malignant. However, the absence of cancer cells does not always mean that a person’s life is not in danger. Benign neoplasms are no less dangerous than malignant ones, as they can cause disruption of the vital functions of the brain and put pressure on tissues and blood vessels.

Headache is the main symptom of a brain tumor. If it gets worse in the morning and is accompanied by nausea or vomiting, you should be wary. Most patients with a confirmed diagnosis have these symptoms, although they do not always indicate the presence of a neoplasm. In order to exclude a brain tumor, it is necessary to undergo an examination.

Sooner or later, a brain tumor begins to cause disruption of vital functions. And it depends only on the location of the tumor what symptoms it will manifest. Tumors of the frontal lobe lead to memory impairment; with a tumor in the temporal lobe, hallucinations may appear, in the parietal lobe - seizures, and if the occipital lobe is affected, coordination of movements is impaired.

In addition, character may deteriorate, numbness occurs in the limbs, speech, vision and hearing are impaired, and the ability to concentrate decreases. If you or a loved one develops such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor.

But do not forget that identifying symptoms is only the first stage of diagnosis. Next, a full examination will be carried out under the supervision of a doctor. First of all, consult a neurologist who will give an objective assessment of your condition and give further recommendations.

Also make an appointment with your eye doctor. When examining the fundus of the eye, it is often possible to identify deviations indicating a neoplasm.

Another reliable way to determine a brain tumor is magnetic resonance or computer diagnostics. They allow you to make a final diagnosis and say whether there is a neoplasm. In order to obtain the most reliable result, it may be necessary to inject a contrast agent into the body. The diagnosis can be found out within half an hour of examination.

Prognosis for the life of patients with benign and malignant brain tumors

Brain tumors are a group of diseases that occur in 20 people of the population. All tumors of the central nervous system are divided into benign brain tumors and malignant ones. However, the course of the process, caused by both benign and malignant neoplasms, is severe.

The etiology of any tumors is unknown. There are only different assumptions about why this disease may develop. In most cases, neoplasms arise spontaneously, without any connection with environmental factors or the state of the body. In some cases, a hereditary connection can be traced, but there is no reliable confirmation of this fact.

Classification of types of brain tumors

Brain tumors. Occurs in 90% of cases.
Spinal cord tumors. The frequency of their diagnosis is 10%.

In relation to the brain:

Intracerebral. They originate from brain cells.
Extracerebral. They can develop from the meninges, bone structures of the skull, and cranial nerves.

In relation to the spinal cord:

Intramedullary - located in the substance of the spinal cord.
Extramedullary - located outside the spinal cord in the spinal canal.

Benign brain tumors do not have a direct destructive effect on the brain substance and on the body as a whole. But the physiological features of both the brain and spinal cord are such that they are located in a closed space formed by the bones of the skull and spine, respectively. Therefore, even a benign head tumor causes compression of the brain, death of its cells, development of corresponding symptoms, even death.

A malignant brain tumor, in addition to its compressive effect, has a toxic effect on the brain and human body. Destroys neurons by growing into them. Metastasizes to other organs and tissues, forming secondary lesions.

Features of the clinical picture for different types of tumors

All symptoms are divided into three groups:

General cerebral symptoms.
Local symptoms.
Symptoms at a distance.

The first group includes signs caused by the development of intracranial hypertension due to an increase in tissue volume (this process is called “plus tissue”):

Specific headache - intensifies in the morning, has the character of aching, bursting. Patients report a feeling of a “heavy head.”
Nausea of varying severity, including vomiting.
In severe cases, depression of consciousness is observed.

Symptoms of the second group depend on the location of the tumor and are caused by compression or destruction of the brain substance. The third group includes signs caused by dislocation of brain structures when the tumor reaches a large size. External manifestations will be observed not at the location of the tumor, but at the site of displacement of the brain.

Clinical symptoms of a malignant brain tumor depending on its location:

Frontal lobe. The defeat of this department leads to personality disorders, changes in behavior, and lack of adequate critical perception of one’s condition. Speech and movement disorders may develop.
Temporal lobe. When the process is localized in this area, “paroxysms of sensations” may develop. Hallucinations of various types are observed - gustatory, visual, auditory, emotional. With extensive damage, movement disorders and speech impairment are observed. hearing, memory, writing.
Parietal lobe. Since this area is responsible for all types of sensitivity and the sense of body position in space, if it is damaged, sensitivity disorders will be observed. Sudden attacks of pain, fever or chills, and a sensation of “cotton limbs” may occur. Coordination and balance are impaired.
Occipital lobe. There is visual impairment such as loss of visual fields, flickering of flies, and changes in color perception.
Ventricles of the brain. When they are damaged, intracranial hypertension quickly develops with the appearance of cerebral symptoms.
Turkish saddle. Since the pituitary gland, which is responsible for the endocrine balance of the body, is located here, when this area is damaged, various hormonal disorders develop.
Spinal cord. In this case, symptoms arise due to irritation of the nerve roots - a pain syndrome that depends on the location of the pathological process.

Interesting! Signs of root dysfunction are lack of sensitivity in the area innervated by the affected segment. A benign tumor of the spinal cord causes compression and disruption of the functions of organs located below the point of compression.

Methods for diagnosing and treating tumors

The diagnosis is made on the basis of a comprehensive examination of the patient. Anamnesis of the disease and features of the clinical picture are of no small importance. Imaging methods are used to clarify the location and extent of the lesion. Laboratory diagnostics are of little importance in making a diagnosis and are used only to detect secondary pathologies caused by the tumor.

MRI with contrast. The most optimal method that gives the most informative results. Allows you to clarify the location of the tumor, its relationship to the functional areas of the brain, and the degree of damage to the brain matter.
According to indications, angiography, craniography, and study of electrical activity of the brain are used.

Removal of a benign tumor - surgical treatment is used to completely eliminate the manifestations of the disease. The only difficulty may be the location of the tumor in places where surgical intervention can lead to damage to a nerve or vessel.

Removing a malignant tumor is more technically complex, since it requires resection of not only visually damaged tissue, but also apparently healthy tissue around the tumor. This technique is called ablastics, and is aimed at maximizing the removal of tumor cells to prevent relapses.

Forecast for life

The course of a malignant neoplasm is always more severe, and the chances of recovery are low. This is due to the double effect of the tumor - local compression of the brain substance and the development of an intoxication syndrome that affects the entire body. Benign brain tumor - the prognosis in this case is more favorable. Surgical treatment allows you to completely get rid of the disease.

Cyber Clinic Spizhenko

Diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Cyber Knife Center, radiosurgery,

radiation therapy, CT

and MRI studies

Urology, reproductive health

Department of Radiology, Department of Neurosurgery

CSD Health care

How to distinguish a benign tumor from a malignant one

Cancer cells are violators of all the rules of cell division. One single atypical cell among millions of decent fellows can lead to the development of a cancerous tumor

The sequence of processes in the body that lead to cancer is complex and variable. A combination of genetic factors, environmental influences and lifestyle can turn a normal cell into a pathological one.

What is the mechanism of tumor development?

Our body is a unique system that maintains a balance between new and old cells. Our body is made up of countless cells. They differ in structure and function. However, regardless of whether the cell is heart or blood, it matures from its earlier predecessors. All cells are programmed to die on time. Their death is carefully controlled by the entire body. Cell death is called apoptosis.

Division, maturation and apoptosis are essential conditions for cell life. The accumulation of tumor cells occurs for several reasons: due to uncontrolled division, due to the inability of cells to mature and turn into their highly professional descendants (they simply remain at the development stage), the inability to die in time.

Tumors are clones. Tumor cells come from one and recreate copies of the original cell. Damage to genes leads to disruption of division, maturation and programmed death. When the body's defense system fails, the damaged cell survives and forms many clones.

Cancer cells not only violate the rules of division, but also do not respond to all sorts of stop signals coming from our body. For example, breast cancer cells grow without estrogen, which is a normal condition for growth. Most cells can report that they are being squeezed by other cells, but cancer cells ignore this signal and continue to multiply.

Tumors are such a diverse phenomenon that they are sometimes difficult to classify and divide into groups. The causes of occurrence, growth mechanism, location and spread determine the type of tumor. In this regard, tumors are divided into benign and malignant.

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?

Doctors consider benign tumors to be tumors that do not pose a major threat and have a favorable prognosis for life. Such tumors grow slowly, they lack the ability to recur and metastasize, and they do not grow into neighboring tissues and organs. Often benign tumors stop growing and begin to develop in the opposite direction.

However, all this does not mean that such tumors are harmless. For example, a benign tumor of the endocrine gland can cause hormonal imbalances, and in the small intestine, if large, it can compress the intestinal loops, causing intestinal obstruction.

Malignant tumors, as the name suggests, are extremely dangerous for the body. They are characterized by rapid growth, the ability to spread throughout the body, giving metastases, and also to germinate into neighboring tissues and organs. A malignant tumor can completely remove organs and vital systems of the human body from normal functioning.

A malignant tumor is not always clearly distinguished from a benign one. In this regard, separate groups of neoplasms are distinguished: locally destructive and potentially malignant. The former have all the features of malignancy, except for metastasis (basal cell skin cancer, desmoid fibroma). Potentially malignant tumors resemble benign tumors in appearance, but can metastasize (carcinoid, giant cell tumor of bone).

How to identify a cancerous tumor?

Unfortunately, none of us is immune from the appearance of a malignant tumor. But if you recognize cancer at an early stage, you can successfully recover from the disease. Next, we will talk about the symptoms of this disease - if you find any of them in yourself or your loved ones, you will need to get checked by a good doctor. Diagnosis of cancer should be carried out by a professional doctor who will prescribe appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of cancer

The following general signs of cancer are identified: swelling, cough, hoarseness and shortness of breath, bleeding, causeless weight loss, negative changes in the digestive tract and moles. Let's look at each of them in a little more detail.

Small tumors and lumps on the body are often harmless, but not always. If you notice an abnormal lump on any part of the body, it is better to see a doctor just in case. For example, breast cancer is diagnosed precisely by the formation of lumps and lumps in the mammary gland. Every woman is recommended to periodically feel her breasts to check their condition. If abnormal lumps are detected, you should definitely contact a mammologist.
If a person develops cancer in the lungs, they will suffer from coughing, hoarseness and shortness of breath. These same signs may indicate inflammation and infection, but you should see a doctor in any case. It is especially important to pay attention to these symptoms if shortness of breath and cough do not go away within two weeks. Also look for blood in the sputum.
Hoarseness may indicate laryngeal cancer.
Any bleeding for no apparent reason will indicate a malfunction of internal organs, including cancer.
It is important to pay attention to changes in the functioning of the digestive tract, if they are not caused by anxiety, changes in diet, or taking medications. The presence of cancer may be indicated by frequent occurrence of constipation or diarrhea for no apparent reason, pain in the abdomen and intestines. The feeling of incomplete cleansing of the intestines after stool may also indicate the development of the disease.
Weight loss without objective reasons may also indicate the development of the disease. If you have lost serious weight over the past few months without experiencing extreme stress, dieting, or vigorous exercise, you should definitely see a doctor.
Pay attention to your moles. Melanoma is considered one of the types of cancer - it can form on an existing mole or appear as a new large one. You need to contact a specialist if you have the following symptoms:
- Asymmetrical moles with uneven edges (regular symmetrical and even);
- Non-standard color (the usual mole is brown, melanoma may have an admixture of black, red, pink, bluish and white);
- Large moles (melanomas larger than 7 mm);
- If the mole becomes crusty, itchy and bleeds.

If strange spots appear on your skin that do not go away for a long time, be sure to consult a doctor. Under no circumstances should you remove moles yourself, or damage them - this can lead to the development of a tumor! If you have large and raised moles, try not to touch them, and if this happens and bleeding occurs, be sure to see a doctor. Any mole, if handled carelessly, can lead to the development of the disease. It is recommended that especially large ones be removed by a specialist - it’s quick and safe.

If you experience any of the above symptoms, do not delay visiting a specialist. The doctor will assess your health and, if necessary, send you for procedures and examinations, after which he will prescribe the appropriate treatment. If cancer is suspected, you will be sent for a tomography, a biopsy, and a specialist doctor will be advised.

People who are at risk

Those who are exposed to long-term and harmful effects. This includes exposure to carcinogens, toxic dyes and radiation. Smokers are also at risk.
Hereditary predisposition to cancer. In this sense, some types of cancer can be distinguished, for example, cancer of the genital organs or intestines. If your blood relatives suffered from such diseases, then your likelihood of getting sick is several times higher. If at least two or three relatives have had cancer, you should consult a genetic oncologist.
Those who suffer from precancerous diseases or have chronic injuries or inflammation. Precancerous diseases are those diseases that can lead to cancer. These include mastopathy, intestinal polyposis, and cirrhosis of the liver.

Those who are at risk need to be examined at a specialized clinic once or twice a year.

Malignant neoplasm is a severe pathology that modern medicine cannot completely cope with. There are various therapeutic methods that allow you to treat the disease in the early stages and stop the process at other stages, however, in general, the prognosis for cure is extremely unfavorable. This circumstance is also facilitated by the fact that until now there is no complete understanding of the mechanism by which the anomaly originates. The only real opportunity to help a sick person is early diagnosis and radical treatment methods.

The essence of malignant formation is the generation of abnormal cells characterized by uncontrolled, chaotic division; the ability to penetrate nearby tissues and metastasize to other internal organs. The process occurs at the genetic level and is associated with changes in cell proliferation and differentiation. As a result of its development, a malignant tumor (cancer) is formed, consisting of an accumulation of abnormal cells and posing a real threat to human life.

Under the influence of exogenous and endogenous factors, normal cells transform into abnormal ones. Such cellular transformation (malignancy), i.e. their malignancy leads to mutations that begin to divide (reproduce) indefinitely with disruption of apoptotic mechanisms. While the immune system is able to cope with these phenomena on its own, it independently identifies mutant cells and destroys them. If she cannot recognize and neutralize them in time, then the process begins to progress with the formation of tumors and subsequent metastases.

Malignant formations are divided into several types according to the localization of the primary focus, the type of transforming cells and the specificity of manifestation. Based on the nature of the tissues in which the proliferation of mutant cells occurs, the following varieties are distinguished:

Carcinoma or, as it is most often called, cancer of epithelial cells.
Sarcoma - originates in connective tissues, incl. muscle and bone (for example, malignant bone tumors).
Melanoma – melanocytes are transformed.
Leukemia – bone marrow stem cells undergo transformation.
Lymphoma – affects the lymphatic tissue.
Teratoma - unripe germ cells decompose.
Glioma is a process that occurs in glial cells.
Choriocarcinoma is a malignant tumor formed from placental tissue.

Primary signs of cancer can be found in any organ of the human body, just as metastasis can develop in any direction. A person can be affected at any age, regardless of gender, but pathology is more often found in older people.

The proliferation of malignant cells proceeds rapidly - the tumor covers more and more new tissues, destroying blood vessels and nerve fibers along the way, which causes severe pain and internal bleeding. Abnormal cells are easily separated from the original focus and spread throughout the body along with the bloodstream, causing distant metastases.

Malignant abilities of cells

The complexity of treatment and the severe consequences of the pathology are due to a number of specific properties of mutant cells:

rapid, chaotic, uncontrolled division and growth with a destructive nature relative to surrounding tissues;
unlimited penetrating ability in the form of invasions and infiltration with the formation of secondary foci - metastasis;
the ability to penetrate blood and lymphatic vessels with distribution throughout the body and the ability to settle in other internal organs;
systemic effects on the body through released toxins that block the immune system; cause severe general intoxication, physical (asthenia) and nervous exhaustion;
the presence of mechanisms to evade T-killer cells of the human immune system;
the appearance of a large number of mutational variants in one tumor;
a significant level of immature cells, causing their low differentiation;
obvious atypicality of the cellular and tissue structure, with a predominance of the atypical cellular structure over the tissue structure;
angiogenesis, expressed in the active growth of the tumor’s own circulatory system, which causes frequent hemorrhages inside the tumor;
the ability to grow as a result of germination into the circulatory system of the body;
tendency to relapse after elimination of the primary lesion.

Etiological features

At present, many factors have been identified that can provoke cell malignancy, but a single etiological mechanism has not been found. In general, the causes of the formation of malignant tumors are usually divided into exogenous (external) and endogenous (internal).

Among the exogenous factors, the main ones stand out:

A chemical compound of a carcinogenic type. Carcinogens that definitely provoke cancer include aromatic hydrocarbons (the main representative is benzene); some metals (cadmium, nickel, chromium, beryllium), a number of petroleum fractions and petroleum products, dioxins and arsenic. Metals such as lead and cobalt, as well as formaldehyde, are considered to be at high risk for cell malignancy.
Polluted atmosphere caused by emissions from chemical, oil refining, metallurgical and paper and pulp complexes. Motor transport makes a significant contribution.
Penetrating ionizing radiation, radiation. This exposure can cause genetic cellular changes.
Electromagnetic type radiation. This factor belongs to the category of causes, the degree of influence of which is not fully understood. The high-risk group includes areas near high-voltage lines, radiation from radio and television antennas, and the action of location stations. A number of researchers insist on the dangers of excessive solar radiation.
Bad habits. Smoking is harmful to the respiratory and digestive organs. The development of cancer of the liver, intestines, and esophagus has been proven to be associated with excessive consumption of alcohol, especially low-quality alcohol.
Poor nutrition. An increased risk of cancer is recognized for animal fats, excessive consumption of salt, preservatives, smoked foods, lack of vitamins and healthy fiber. The provoking role of nitrates contained in food products has been proven.

Dangerous endogenous factors look like this:

Some viral lesions. There is a significant role of viruses in the appearance of liver tumors (hepatitis viruses); formations in the uterine cervix, vulva, genitals (papilloma virus); bladder tumor (schistosomiasis); cancer of the bile ducts (opisthorchiasis).
Hormonal imbalance. In particular, damage to the mammary gland in women is often caused by excess production of estrogen.
Immune system disorders. The risk of uncontrolled use of immunosuppressants is particularly highlighted.
Genetic, congenital and hereditary disorders.
Age factor.

Symptomatic features

The symptoms of a malignant tumor are largely determined by its location. It should be noted that such an important indicator as pain syndrome manifests itself only in advanced stages. Early diagnosis is hampered by the weak severity of symptoms and the inability to distinguish them from other organic dysfunctions.

In all types of malignant tumors, the following general manifestation can be distinguished:

Local symptoms - swelling, edema, focal compaction; bleeding; signs of an inflammatory reaction; icteric manifestations.
Signs of metastasis – swelling of the lymph nodes; cough, often with blood; increase in liver size; bone pain and frequent bone fractures; neurological problems.
Systemic signs – noticeable and rapid weight loss, loss of appetite, exhaustion of the body; immunopathology; hyperhidrosis; anemia.
Mental disorders - irritability, apathy, fear of death, insomnia.

The progression of the disease leads to the development of a number of syndromes that combine the main symptoms of the disease:

Treatment futility syndrome. Very often, treatment attempts do not lead to a significant improvement in the condition, which causes psychological disturbance in 2 main options - stopping treatment or, conversely, taking numerous medications that are at best useless and at worst dangerous.
Syndrome of main signs. It implies the presence of the most noticeable symptoms - fatigue, low performance, apathy, a constant feeling of discomfort, sudden weight loss, unexpected blood or mucous discharge, dysfunction of the affected organs.
Tissue gain syndrome. It is expressed in an increase in the size of the affected organ and lymph nodes, the appearance of swelling, the occurrence of asymmetries and deformations.
Paraneoplastic type syndromes. They combine the main signs of metastases, when the tumor develops at a sufficient distance from the original focus.
Functional syndromes are a manifestation of damage to one or another internal organ (respiratory problems, coughing up blood, digestive disorders, dyspeptic symptoms, pain, hormonal imbalance, change in voice timbre, etc.).

Assessing the severity of the lesion

Malignant formations progress quite quickly, and the extent of the damage is characterized by the stage of the pathology. The following parameters are taken as the basis for the stage classification of the disease: the type and degree of differentiation (malignancy) of the formation; location of the primary focus; tumor size and rate of increase; reaction of lymph nodes; signs and nature of metastases.

It is customary to distinguish the following oncological stages:

Stage 0. The initial stage, when the formation does not extend beyond the epithelium. At this stage, the disease can be cured.
Stage 1. The tumor begins to grow, but it is located within the boundaries of the affected organ, not even spreading to the lymph nodes. The prognosis for cure is favorable.
Stage 2. Significant growth of the neoplasm in the affected organ and its spread to regional lymph nodes.
Stage 3. Metastasis to lymph nodes and germination into surrounding tissues. The patient's life expectancy depends on the degree of tumor differentiation.
Stage 4 or end stage. Significant dysfunction of the affected organ, development of distant metastases. Treatment consists of maximizing the prolongation of the patient’s life and alleviating the condition.

Features of benign formations

Violation of the mechanism of cell division does not always lead to oncological pathology. In medical practice, benign and malignant tumors are distinguished. When prescribing treatment, it is important to determine exactly what type of formation is occurring. Already from the name itself it is clear that a benign formation does not pose a great danger to humans, although it can cause some discomfort. Malignant differences in education are quite pronounced. An oncological tumor differs from a benign tumor in the following parameters:

Differentiation. Benign cells are practically indistinguishable from normal and have a high degree of differentiation, while transformed cells have average or low differentiation.
Progression. The most important difference between these neoplasms is their growth. Benign tumors grow extremely slowly (sometimes they do not change size at all).
One of the main distinguishing characteristics is the lack of propensity for metastases in benign tumors.
Benign tumors are not prone to recurrence after surgical removal.
Impact on the body. Benign tumors do not grow into surrounding tissues, but only move or compress them. It is the compression of blood vessels and nerve fibers that causes painful signs of the anomaly. Malignant formations lead to cancer intoxication and destruction of blood vessels.

Principles of pathology treatment

A real cure is only possible in the early stages of cancer. In other cases, there is a struggle for the maximum life expectancy of the patient and alleviation of the manifestation of the disease. Treatment of malignant neoplasms can be carried out in the following ways:

Surgical removal. This method is also used in the presence of a benign tumor.
Chemotherapy. It is based on the introduction of potent drugs that can slow down or stop the division of abnormal cells. The technology can be used as a separate procedure or after surgical treatment to exclude relapses. To increase effectiveness, a special diet is provided for chemotherapy of malignant tumors.
Radiotherapy. Using X-ray or gamma radiation, the destruction of mutant cells is ensured.
Photodynamic therapy is carried out using substances that can kill malignant cells when exposed to a stream of light.
Additionally, hormonal and immunostimulating therapy is carried out. In advanced stages, special attention is paid to pain relief

Everyone is afraid to hear. And if previously such malignant processes were found only in the elderly, today such pathology often affects young people under 30 years of age.

Is a malignant tumor cancer or not?

Not every malignant oncology is cancer, although many people unknowingly think so. In fact, cancer is considered to be carcinoma - the formation of epithelial cells.

How is it different from a benign tumor?

A distinctive feature of benign oncology is the fact that such a tumor is located in a kind of capsule that separates and protects the surrounding tissue from the tumor.

The malignant nature of the tumor gives it the ability to grow into neighboring tissues, causing severe pain and destruction, metastasizing throughout the body.

Abnormal cells easily divide and spread throughout the body through the bloodstream, stopping in different organs and forming a new tumor there, identical to the first one. Such neoplasms are called metastases.

Kinds

Poor quality formations are divided into several types:

Carcinoma or cancer. Diagnosed in more than 80% of cases of such oncology. Education is formed more often in, or,. A similar tumor is formed from epithelial cells. Appearance varies depending on location. In general, they are a node with a bumpy or smooth surface, hard or soft structure;
. Grows from cells of muscle and bone connective tissue. It is quite rare (1% of all low-quality oncologies) and can be located on the joints, lungs, etc. Such a tumor is characterized by rapid growth and metastasis. Often, even with early diagnosis and removal, it recurs again;
. Formed from lymphatic tissues. Such neoplasms lead to disturbances in organic functions, since the lymphatic system, designed to protect the body from infectious lesions, cannot perform its main tasks in the presence of a tumor;
. It is formed in the brain, growing from glial nervous system cells. Usually accompanied by severe headache and dizziness. In general, the manifestations of such a tumor depend on its location in the brain;
. It grows from melanocytes and is localized mainly on the skin of the face, neck, and limbs. It is rare (approximately 1% of all malignant tumors), characterized by a tendency to early metastasis;
. Grows from bone marrow stem cells. Leukemia is essentially a cancer of blood-forming cells;
. It consists of embryonic cells, formed during the prenatal period under the influence of pathogenic factors. Most often localized in the testicles, ovaries, brain and sacrum;
. Develops from placental tissues. It is found only in women, mainly in the uterus, tubes, ovaries, etc.;
Malignant formations that develop in children under 5 years of age. This includes various tumors like, or, or leukemia.

Causes

The main predisposing factor to the formation of malignant tumors is heredity. If several cancer patients are discovered in a family, then all members of the household can be registered.

Availability is no less important. Unfortunately, even a photo of lungs affected by cancer placed on a pack of cigarettes does not discourage smokers from this addiction. Tobacco smoking most often leads to the development of lung or stomach cancer.

Alcohol addiction is no less dangerous, since against the background of such abuse, malignant oncology can also develop. Most often, toxic products of alcohol breakdown cause cancer of the larynx, stomach, liver, oral cavity, pancreas, esophagus, intestine or breast.

In general, experts identify only three groups of factors predisposing to the development of cancer:

Biological– this group includes various viruses;
Chemical– this includes carcinogens and toxic substances;
Physical– represent a group of factors including UV radiation, radiation exposure, etc.

All of the above factors are external in nature. Experts consider genetic predisposition to be internal factors.

How to identify a malignant neoplasm?

To determine a malignant tumor process, it is necessary to have an idea of its symptoms. So, malignant oncology is characterized by the following main features:

Pain. It can appear at the beginning of the tumor process or occurs with its further development. Often there is pain in bone tissue, and there is a tendency to fractures;
Signs of weakness and chronic fatigue. Such symptoms arise gradually and are accompanied by lack of appetite, hypersweating, sudden weight loss, and anemia;
State of fever. This sign often indicates systemic spread of the cancer process. Malignant oncology affects the immune system, which begins to fight hostile cells, which is why a state of fever appears;
If the tumor does not develop inside the body, but close to the surface, then a palpable swelling or induration may be detected;

In the photo you can see a lump on the skin, this is what a malignant tumor looks like - basal cell carcinoma

Against the background of a malignant tumor a tendency to bleed may develop. For stomach cancer - bloody vomiting, for colon cancer - feces with blood, for uterine cancer - bloody vaginal discharge, for prostate cancer - semen with blood, for bladder cancer - bloody urine, etc.;
Against the background of a malignant tumor process lymph nodes become enlarged, neurological symptoms appear, the patient is often exposed to various inflammations, any rashes on the skin or jaundice, ulcers, etc. may appear.

General symptoms increase gradually, supplemented by new signs; the condition gradually worsens, which is associated with toxic damage to the body by tumor waste products.

Pathways of metastasis

Hematogenous pathway - the spread of the cancer process through the bloodstream, when tumor cells enter the vascular system and are transferred to other organs. Such metastasis is typical for sarcomas, chorionepitheliomas, hypernephromas, lymphomas and tumors of hematopoietic tissue;
Lymphogenic the path involves metastasis of tumor cells through the lymph flow through the lymph nodes and further into nearby tissues. This route of spread of metastases is typical for internal tumors such as cancer of the uterus, colon, stomach, esophagus, etc.
Mixed the path involves lymphogenous-hematogenous metastasis. Such spread of the tumor process is typical for most malignant oncologies (breast, lung, thyroid, ovarian or bronchial cancer).

Stages of development

During diagnosis, not only the type of malignant tumor is determined, but also the stage of its development. There are 4 stages in total:

Stage I is characterized by small tumor sizes and the absence of tumor invasion into adjacent tissues. The tumor process does not involve the lymph nodes;
Stage II of a malignant tumor process is characterized by a clear definition of the tumor within its initial localization, although the presence of single metastases to regional lymph nodes is possible;
Stage III is characterized by tumor growth into the tissues surrounding it. Metastasis in regional lymph nodes becomes multiple;
At stage IV, metastasis spreads not only to the lymph nodes, but also to distant organs.

Diagnostic methods

Diagnosis of malignant oncology involves the following procedures.

Cancer cells are violators of all the rules of cell division. One single atypical cell among millions of “decent” fellows can lead to the development of a cancerous tumor

What is the mechanism of tumor development?

Cancer cells not only violate the rules of division, but also do not respond to all kinds of “stop” signals coming from our body. For example, cell growth occurs without estrogen, which is a normal condition for growth. Most cells can report that they are being squeezed by other cells, but cancer cells ignore this signal and continue to multiply.

What is the difference between benign and malignant tumors?