Benign Tumors

A tumor is an abnormal growth of cells that serves no purpose. A benign tumor is not a malignant tumor, which is cancer. It does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body the way cancer can. In most cases, the outlook with benign tumors is very good. But benign tumors can be serious if they press on vital structures such as blood vessels or nerves. Therefore, sometimes they require treatment and other times they do not.

Causes of Benign Tumors

What causes a benign tumor to form? Often the cause is unknown. But the growth of a benign tumor might be linked to:

• Environmental toxins, such as exposure to radiation
• Genetics
• Diet
• Stress
• Local trauma or injury
• Inflammation or infection

Treatment of Benign Tumors

In many cases, benign tumors need no treatment. Doctors may simply use "watchful waiting" to make sure they cause no problems. But treatment may be needed if symptoms are a problem. Surgery is a common type of treatment for benign tumors. The goal is to remove the tumor without damaging surrounding tissues. Other types of treatment may include medication or radiation.

Common Types of Benign Tumors

There are many different types of benign tumors arising from different structures in the body. These are some of the most common types of benign tumors:

Adenomas are benign tumors starting in the epithelial tissue of a gland or gland-like structure. The epithelial tissue is the thin layer of tissue covering organs, glands, and other structures. A common type of adenoma is a polyp in the colon. Adenomas might also grow in the liver or the adrenal, pituitary, or thyroid gland.

In most cases, adenomas can be removed with surgery. Although not common, this type of tumor can become malignant.

Fibromas (or fibroids) are tumors of fibrous or connective tissue that can grow in any organ. Fibroids commonly grow in the uterus. Although not cancerous, uterine fibroids can lead to heavy vaginal bleeding, bladder problems, or pelvic pain or pressure.

Another type of fibrous tissue tumor is a desmoid tumor. These tumors can cause problems by growing into nearby tissues.

Because they can cause symptoms, fibrous tissue tumors may need to be removed with surgery.

Hemangiomas are a buildup of blood vessel cells in the skin or internal organs. Hemangiomas are a common type of birthmark, often occurring in the head, neck, or trunk. They may appear red or bluish in color. Most go away on their own. Those that interfere with vision, hearing, or eating may require treatment with corticosteroids or other medication.

Lipomas grow from fat cells. They are the most common benign tumor in adults, often found in the neck, shoulders, back, or arms. Lipomas are slow growing, usually round and movable, and soft to the touch. They may run in families and sometimes they result from an injury. Treatment may be needed if a lipoma is painful or growing quickly. This may include steroid shots or removal through liposuction or surgery.