A malignant neoplasm refers to the abnormal and uncontrolled growth and multiplication of cells within the body. This condition is triggered by DNA mutations resulting from genetic factors, obesity, smoking, or excessive sun exposure.
In its early stages, a malignant neoplasm may not cause any noticeable physical symptoms or warning signs. However, as the tumor grows or begins to spread, patients may experience unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or fever.
The treatment for a malignant neoplasm, which is more commonly known as cancer, is managed by oncologists or hematologists. Specialized care may include surgical intervention, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, or bone marrow transplants depending on the case.
Main symptoms
The primary symptoms associated with a malignant neoplasm (cancer) include:
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Unexplained weight loss
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A persistent or chronic cough
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Fever or heavy night sweats
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Intense, unexplained fatigue
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Lumps or swollen lymph nodes in the breast, neck, or abdomen
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New or changing spots on the skin
The specific symptoms of a malignant neoplasm vary based on the type and location of the cancer. If you notice any persistent or concerning symptoms, it is important to consult a primary care physician for a proper diagnostic evaluation.
Is malignant neoplasm the same as cancer?
Yes, cancer and malignant neoplasm are synonymous terms. If a medical report indicates a malignant neoplasm or the presence of malignant cells, it means that cancer has been detected.
In these situations, it is vital to complete all follow-up testing to confirm the diagnosis. Starting treatment as soon as possible is critical to preventing metastasis and increasing the likelihood of a successful recovery.
How a diagnosis is confirmed
The diagnosis of a malignant neoplasm is officially made by an oncologist or a hematologist-oncologist. Most patients are referred to these specialists after a routine screening or an exam intended to investigate specific symptoms.
To confirm the diagnosis, determine the cancer type, and identify the stage, doctors typically order several tests. These may include biopsies, blood tests for tumor markers, and various imaging studies.
Why it happens
A malignant neoplasm occurs when changes or mutations develop in a cell's DNA, causing it to lose the characteristics of a healthy, normal cell. These genetic errors lead to the rapid and disorganized multiplication of neoplastic cells.
Unlike benign growths, these cells have the ability to invade nearby tissues and travel to distant organs. When cancer spreads to other parts of the body, the process is known as metastasis.
Possible causes and risk factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of a malignant neoplasm, including:
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Genetic predisposition and family history
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Obesity and high body mass index
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Tobacco use and smoking
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A diet low in nutrients and high in fried or processed foods
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Frequent or excessive alcohol consumption
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Certain viral infections
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Exposure to radiation or toxic chemicals
Furthermore, frequent and unprotected exposure to UV rays from the sun can damage cellular DNA, often leading to various forms of skin cancer.
Types of malignant neoplasm
Malignant neoplasms are classified based on the type of tissue where they originate:
1. Carcinoma
A carcinoma is a malignancy that begins in the epithelial cells, which line the skin and the surfaces of internal organs. Common examples include basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and lung or bladder carcinomas.
2. Adenocarcinoma
This type of cancer starts in the glandular cells. Adenocarcinomas are frequently found in the breast, prostate, lungs, pancreas, stomach, and colon.
3. Sarcoma
Sarcomas are malignant tumors that develop in the bones or soft tissues, such as muscle, fat, tendons, and blood vessels. Examples include osteosarcoma and Kaposi’s sarcoma.
4. Lymphoma
Lymphomas are blood-based malignancies that specifically affect lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. The two primary categories are Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
5. Leukemia
Leukemia is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow characterized by the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. It can be classified as acute or chronic, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Read about the signs of leukemia and how it can present.
6. Blastoma
A blastoma is a malignancy that originates in embryonic tissue or "blast" cells. These are more common in children and include conditions like retinoblastoma or nephroblastoma (Wilms' tumor).
Treatment options
The goal of treatment for a malignant neoplasm is to slow the growth of cancer cells, prevent spread, and improve the patient's quality of life. Common treatments include:
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Surgery: Used to physically remove the tumor, especially when the cancer is localized and in its early stages.
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Chemotherapy: Uses powerful medications to stop cancer cells from dividing. While effective, it can cause side effects like hair loss and anemia because it also affects healthy dividing cells.
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Radiotherapy: Uses targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells or shrink tumors. It is often used in combination with other therapies.
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Targeted therapy: Involves drugs designed to target specific molecules that help cancer cells grow, causing less damage to normal cells.
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Immunotherapy: A treatment that helps the patient's own immune system recognize and attack malignant cells more effectively.
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Hormone therapy: Frequently used for breast or prostate cancers to block the hormones that fuel tumor growth.
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Bone marrow transplant: Common for leukemias and lymphomas, this involves replacing damaged marrow with healthy stem cells after intensive high-dose therapy.
Is there a cure for malignant neoplasm?
A cure is often possible when a malignant neoplasm is caught in its early stages and treated promptly. Early intervention is the best way to prevent metastasis, which is the spread of cancer to other areas of the body that makes the disease much harder to manage.