What is Tumor (Lump/Mass)?
A tumor (also referred to as a lump or mass) is an abnormal growth of tissue that forms when cells divide and grow excessively. Tumors can develop in any part of the body and vary from pea-sized nodules to larger masses. According to the National Cancer Institute, tumors fall into two categories: benign (non-cancerous) tumors that usually don't spread and malignant (cancerous) tumors that can invade nearby tissues or spread to other organs.
Common Causes
Lumps/masses may result from:
- Lipomas: Fatty benign tumors (most common soft-tissue tumor - Cleveland Clinic)
- Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs (e.g., sebaceous cysts)
- Abscesses: Pus-filled infections (CDC)
- Swollen lymph nodes: Often due to infection (NIH)
- Fibroadenomas: Common benign breast lumps (Mayo Clinic)