neoplazmy

Neoplazmy, or neoplasms, are abnormal new growths of tissue that arise from uncontrolled cell proliferation. They reflect genetic and epigenetic changes that disrupt normal regulatory mechanisms governing cell division and death. Neoplasms can be benign or malignant, and in some contexts they may be premalignant lesions with potential to progress to cancer. In English, the term is neoplasms; neoplazmy is used as the plural form in some languages.

Benign neoplasms are typically well circumscribed, non-invasive, and do not metastasize. They may cause symptoms by mass effect but usually do not threaten life. Malignant neoplasms invade adjacent tissues, invade blood or lymphatic vessels, and can spread to distant sites (metastasis).

Origin and classification: Neoplasms are named and grouped by the tissue from which they arise. Epithelial neoplasms are called carcinomas, connective tissue or muscle neoplasms are sarcomas, and blood-forming tissue neoplasms include leukemias and lymphomas. Some lesions are premalignant and require monitoring or treatment to prevent cancer.

Diagnosis and staging: Evaluation combines clinical examination, imaging and tissue sampling. Histopathology confirms the diagnosis and grade, while molecular tests can identify driver mutations and guide therapy. Staging systems, such as the TNM classification, assess tumor extent and spread, informing prognosis and treatment choices.

Treatment and prognosis: Benign neoplasms may be removed if symptomatic; malignant neoplasms are treated with a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Prognosis varies widely by cancer type, stage, grade, and molecular features, with earlier detection generally linked to better outcomes.