Malignant

Malignant is an adjective describing something dangerous, harmful, or harmful in effect. In medical usage, it refers to conditions or tissues with the potential to invade surrounding structures or spread to distant sites. The term derives from Latin malignus, meaning ill-natured or harmful.

In oncology, a malignant tumor (malignant neoplasm) is cancerous and capable of invading neighboring tissues and metastasizing to other parts of the body. Malignancy is contrasted with benign tumors, which are typically non-invasive and non-metastatic. Diagnosis often involves histological examination and imaging, while treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapy. Prognosis depends on cancer type, stage, and overall patient factors.

Malignant is also the title of a 2021 American supernatural horror film directed by James Wan and starring Annabelle Wallis. The story follows Madison Mitchell, a woman who experiences disturbing visions connected to a violent past. The film is noted for its distinctive visual style and a twist that reframes the source of its violence. It was released theatrically by Warner Bros. Pictures and distributed on the HBO Max platform.

In broader usage, malignant may describe diseases or conditions with malignant potential, meaning they could become or behave like cancer if left untreated. The term conveys a sense of severity and danger in clinical and general language.