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Benign Tumors
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Cancers

Benign Tumors

Benign tumors are non-cancerous abnormal growths that remain localized, though they can pose health risks if they exert pressure on vital organs.

Overview

Tumors are abnormal growths in the body that are classified as either benign or malignant. While malignant tumors are cancerous, benign tumors are not. A key characteristic of benign tumors is that they grow only in one place and cannot spread or invade other parts of the body. However, they can still be dangerous if they press on vital organs, such as the brain.

Cellular Development

Tumors are composed of extra cells. In a healthy state, cells grow and divide to form new cells as needed, and old cells die to be replaced. When this process malfunctions, new cells form unnecessarily and old cells fail to die. These extra cells can divide without stopping, potentially forming a tumor.

Treatment

Treatment for benign tumors often involves surgery. Once removed, these tumors usually do not grow back.

Frequently Asked Questions

Doctors typically use a combination of methods. Imaging tests like MRI, CT scans, or ultrasound can provide details about the tumor's size, shape, and location. However, the definitive way to determine if a tumor is benign or malignant is usually through a biopsy, where a small tissue sample is removed and examined under a microscope by a pathologist.
Even though benign tumors don't spread, they can still cause problems. They might need to be removed if they grow large enough to press on vital organs or nerves, causing pain, dysfunction, or other symptoms (e.g., a brain tumor causing headaches or seizures). They may also be removed for cosmetic reasons, if they cause discomfort, or if there's any uncertainty about whether they are truly benign.
While most benign tumors remain benign and do not turn cancerous, a small number of specific types of benign tumors have a very low risk of transforming into malignant ones over time. This is not common for all benign tumors, but it's one reason why some are monitored or removed, especially if they are in a location where a change could be problematic.
Recovery after benign tumor removal depends on the tumor's size, location, and the type of surgery performed. Generally, patients can expect some pain and discomfort at the surgical site, which can be managed with medication. Activity restrictions may be necessary for a period, and follow-up appointments are important to monitor healing and ensure the tumor does not recur. Most benign tumors, once removed, do not grow back.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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