Tumortyps

Tumortyps are categories used in medicine to describe tumors according to their histological type, cellular origin, and biological behavior. The term encompasses a wide range of neoplasms from benign growths to malignant cancers and pre-malignant lesions. Classification commonly begins with tissue of origin: carcinomas arise from epithelial tissues; sarcomas from connective tissues; lymphomas and leukemias from hematopoietic cells; melanomas from pigment-producing cells; and central nervous system tumors such as gliomas. Neuroendocrine tumors and germ cell tumors are additional groups defined by their line of differentiation. Tumors are also grouped by behavior into benign, malignant, and, when present, pre-malignant states such as dysplasia or carcinoma in situ.

Diagnosis relies on tissue examination, often with histopathology and immunohistochemistry, supported by molecular and genetic testing, imaging studies, and clinical context. Tumor classification is refined by molecular alterations (for example, specific mutations or gene expression profiles) that can guide prognosis and treatment decisions.

Treatment and prognosis depend on type and stage. Benign tumors are often managed by observation or surgical excision. Malignant tumors may require combinations of surgery, radiation therapy, and systemic treatments such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies, or immunotherapies. Hormonal therapies are used for certain receptor-positive cancers. The prognosis varies widely across tumor types and stages, from highly curable tumors when detected early to aggressive cancers with limited survival in advanced disease.

New tumor typologies continue to emerge as molecular profiling reveals distinct subtypes within traditional categories, influencing screening, prevention, and personalized therapy.