What term describes the abnormal growth of tissue that can be benign or malignant?

The term "tumor" refers to an abnormal growth of tissue resulting from uncontrolled cell division. Tumors can be classified as benign or malignant. Benign tumors are non-cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body, while malignant tumors are cancerous and can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize to distant organs. This dual nature of tumors is crucial in medical diagnoses and treatment planning, as malignant tumors require different approaches compared to benign ones.

In contrast, a cyst is a fluid-filled sac that may or may not be associated with abnormal tissue growth, and it doesn't necessarily imply cancerous potential. A biopsy is a medical procedure used to remove tissue for examination to determine the presence of disease, including cancer, rather than being a type of growth itself. A polyp is a specific type of growth, typically found in mucosal tissues, which can also be benign or malignant but is more restrictive in its definition compared to the broader term "tumor." Therefore, "tumor" serves as the most comprehensive and accurate term for describing abnormal tissue growth in both benign and malignant contexts.