When Colin was given his diagnosis, he was told that he has a malignant tumour. This means he has which of the following? Select one:
a. Cancer.
b. Metastasis.
c. A tumour that grows slowly.
d. Death of tissue.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is a. Cancer.
A malignant tumour is a type of cancer. This refers to a tumour that is capable of growing uncontrollably and spreading to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. Unlike benign tumours, which grow slowly and remain localized, malignant tumours invade surrounding tissues and can spread to distant organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Malignant tumours consist of abnormal cells that have lost the typical regulatory mechanisms that control cell growth and division. These cells divide uncontrollably and do not respond to signals that would normally stop cell division. Over time, the tumour becomes larger and may affect the function of nearby organs and tissues. The spread of cancer cells to other areas of the body makes treatment more complicated and can reduce the likelihood of successful outcomes.
Metastasis, mentioned in option b, refers to the process by which cancer cells spread from the primary tumour to other parts of the body. However, not all malignant tumours have metastasized by the time of diagnosis.
Option c suggests a tumour that grows slowly, which is characteristic of benign tumours. Benign tumours, unlike malignant ones, do not spread to other parts of the body and are generally not life-threatening.
Option d, “death of tissue,” refers to necrosis, which can occur as a result of insufficient blood supply or as part of the tumour’s growth. However, it is not a direct definition of a malignant tumour.
In summary, the key characteristic of a malignant tumour is its ability to grow rapidly and spread, which is why it is classified as cancer.