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benign tumour
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Failure of DNA repair mechanismsDNA repair mechanisms maintain the integrity of DNA, which often acquires mutations during replication. If these mechanisms fail, or if the cell does not undergo apoptosis (a genetically encoded cell “suicide”), more mutations may occur, and the cells will proliferate. If the proliferation is slow and localized to the area in which it begins, the result is a benign tumour. With fast, uncontrolled growth and the invasion of other tissues, a malignant tumour arises.
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benign tumour

pathology
Also known as: benign neoplasm
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Failure of DNA repair mechanismsDNA repair mechanisms maintain the integrity of DNA, which often acquires mutations during replication. If these mechanisms fail, or if the cell does not undergo apoptosis (a genetically encoded cell “suicide”), more mutations may occur, and the cells will proliferate. If the proliferation is slow and localized to the area in which it begins, the result is a benign tumour. With fast, uncontrolled growth and the invasion of other tissues, a malignant tumour arises.
Failure of DNA repair mechanisms

DNA repair mechanisms maintain the integrity of DNA, which often acquires mutations during replication. If these mechanisms fail, or if the cell does not undergo apoptosis (a genetically encoded cell “suicide”), more mutations may occur, and the cells will proliferate. If the proliferation is slow and localized to the area in which it begins, the result is a benign tumour. With fast, uncontrolled growth and the invasion of other tissues, a malignant tumour arises.

A benign tumor is an abnormal growth of cells that remains localized and poses little risk to health. Unlike malignant tumors, benign tumors do not invade surrounding tissues or spread to distant sites through metastasis. They are not aggressive and have not entirely escaped the growth controls that regulate normal cells.123

While generally not dangerous, benign tumors can cause symptoms by expanding and pressing on nearby organs. For example, a benign tumor compressing the brainstem could lead to serious issues. However, it is uncommon for benign tumors to be fatal. Benign tumors are often named by adding the suffix "-oma" to the name of the tissue or cell of origin, such as an osteoma from bone cells or an adenoma from glandular cells.14

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
7 Britannica Sources
  1. cancer - Malignant tumors and benign tumors
  2. tumour
  3. cancer - Nomenclature of benign tumors
  4. cancer: Top Questions
  5. cancer - Site of origin
  6. bladder cancer: Top Questions
  7. liver cancer: Top Questions

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