Understanding Benign Tumors: Cause, Symptoms, and Removal
Finding an odd lump or bump on your body can be a bit scary, but not all tumours are cancerous. They are what are known as benign tumours, which are caused by cells growing out of control but then running out of steam so that they cannot invade other tissue or travel to other parts of the body. Most warts are harmless and can be treated with over-the-counter remedies, but some, depending on the size and location, warrant a trip to the doctor.
Here, this blog will discuss the most important differences between benign and malignant tumours, their causes, types, symptoms and options for treatment. Whether you’re looking for reassurance or information, this list will guide you through benign tumours and when to see a specialist.
Causes and Risk Factors
Benign tumours may occur as a result of a number of factors, such as:
- Genetic and Family History- Several nonmalignant tumours, including neurofibromas and lipomas, can be familial, and a genetic susceptibility is likely.
- Previous Injuries or Trauma- In other cases, deformation of a tissue due to injury can set off irregular cell growth, resulting in benign tumours such as keloids (overgrowth of scar tissue).
- Recent or Chronic Infections- Some infections can lead to tissue hypertrophy. For instance, it can cause benign skin warts (human papillomavirus or HPV).
- Hormonal Imbalances- But hormones are a major factor in tumours, such as myomas (uterine fibroids), which depend on the level of oestrogen.
Dietary and Lifestyle Factors
- To a lesser degree, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and obesity may be associated with some benign growths.
It is important to know these risk factors in order to perform screening tests and for preventive care.
Features of Benign Tumours
- Slow growing – They grow slowly, and it takes years.
- Clear boundaries – They are encapsulated and do not spread to nearby tissues.
- Non-invasive and non-metastatic – They are localised and do not spread.
- Local discomfort – Some will ache or feel pressure limited to when they push on nerves or organs.
- Uncommon to recur after resection – Not many recurrences after surgical resection.
Even benign tumours should be watched, as some may become large, interfering with normal body functions.
Benign Tumours in Common Locations
Lipoma
- Soft, movable, nontender lumps under the skin, composed of fat cells. Most likely in the neck, shoulders & back.
Myoma (Fibroids)
- Tumours of muscle tissue, which are commonly found in the uterus. It may result in heavy periods or pelvic pain.
Fibroma
- Hard, painless, thickened growths of connective tissue, such as on the skin or in the mouth.
Moles (Nevi)
- Pigmented skin spots. The majority of them are benign, but if you notice that they have changed in size, colour, or consistency, have a doctor take a look.
Osteoma
- In general, bones grow in the skull, and the long bones. Seldom cause symptoms unless they compress nerves.
Neuroma
- Tumours of the nerve tissue, which occasionally cause tingling or pain (such as Morton’s neuroma in the foot).
Haemangioma
- A group of blood vessels may be more common in babies (strawberry marks). Most fade over time.
Adenoma
- Tumours from glands (such as the thyroid or colon). These can influence hormone synthesis in some cases.
Meningioma
- Brain or spinal cord lining tumours. Typically slow-growing, but can be associated with headaches or seizures.
Fibroadenomas (Benign Breast Lumps)
- Lumpy, rubbery knobs are frequent in younger women. Rarely become cancerous.
Benign Brain Tumours
- It may cause disturbances of cognition or motor functions in accordance with the location.
Symptoms of Benign Tumours
The range of symptoms differs between affected areas and can include:
✔ Lumps or swellings (for example, lipomas, fibromas) which are palpable
✔ Pain and discomfort (when pushing on nearby nerves or organs)
✔ Symptomatic (e.g., dyspnoea with large thoracic tumours) pressure phenomena
✔ Cosmetic Issues (i.e.: facial osteomas or skin blebs)
✔ Impaired function (e.g., vision loss with orbital tumours)
Although many benign tumours are asymptomatic, the patient should be checked if persistent or unusual changes are present.
Diagnosis of Benign Tumours
Initial Assessment
- Clinical examination – Examining the lumps size, consistency, and mobility.
- (Past medical history – reviewing risk factors/symptoms).
Imaging Tests
- X-ray – Identify bone tumours (osteomas).
- Ultrasound – Can look for soft tissue masses (such as lipomas and fibroids).
- CT/MRI scans – detailed images of internal or brain tumours.
Biopsy
- Fine needle aspiration – Removes cells for laboratory study.
- Surgical biopsy – Sample or remove a portion or the entirety of the tumour for examination.
Treatment Options
Watchful Waiting
- If the tumour is small and asymptomatic, surveillance may be adequate.
Medications
- Hormone therapy (for fibroids).
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (to help with pain/swelling).
Surgical Removal
Recommended if the tumour:
- Causes pain or dysfunction
- Grows rapidly
- Poses cosmetic concerns
Many are minimally invasive and with little recovery.
Post-Treatment Monitoring
- Follow-up scans or check-ups make sure there’s no reoccurrence.
When to See a Doctor
Call a professional if you see:
⚠ Sudden increase/growth in size
⚠ New pain or neurological signs (e.g., headache, seizures)
⚠ Unusual skin symptoms (bleeding, itching, atypical moles)
⚠ A lack of function (e.g., visual or mobility)
Early diagnosis gives peace of mind and avoids possible complications.
Prognosis and Outlook
Benign tumours The majority of benign tumours have an excellent prognosis.
✔ Low risk of recurrence after excision
✔ Hardly any long-term consequences, and
✔ Rare progression to cancer
But some of these (like meningiomas — or large fibroids) will need to be watched.
Conclusion
Non-cancerous growths are mostly harmless, but they are not something to overlook. It is useful to know their features, symptoms, and treatment to make good health decisions.
At Chase Lodge Hospital we offer the latest tests and treatment options available for benign tumours and our highly experienced staff are dedicated to offering tailored care. If you are worried about a lump or growth, make an appointment today for a full diagnosis and personal reassurance.
Early detection is the key to the best possible outcome – don’t wait to get checked!!
