Malignant neoplasm

Malignant neoplasm is a medical term for a cancerous tumour. It is a general term that includes many different types of cancer. These tumours can start anywhere in the body, and their specific type depends on the kinds of cells found inside them. Some common examples of malignant neoplasms include carcinomas, sarcomas, melanoma, and lymphomas.

A benign neoplasm is the opposite of a malignant neoplasm. Unlike malignant neoplasms, benign neoplasms are non-cancerous. The key difference is that the cells in a malignant neoplasm can spread to other parts of the body, a process called metastasis, whereas benign neoplasms cannot.

Why is malignant neoplasm considered a preliminary diagnosis?

The term malignant neoplasm is often used as a preliminary diagnosis because it does not provide detailed information about the types of cells in the tumour. Pathologists use this term when they need more information to make a more specific diagnosis. This situation often arises when only a small tumour sample is available for examination, such as in a biopsy.

A biopsy is a medical procedure where a small piece of the tumour is removed and sent to a laboratory for testing. While the biopsy provides important clues about the tumour, it may not show all the characteristics needed to determine the exact type of tumour.

What additional tests might be performed?

To better understand the tumour, pathologists may perform additional tests on the biopsy sample, including:

• Immunohistochemistry: This test uses special stains to look for proteins made by the tumour cells, which can help identify their origin.
• Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH): A test that looks for genetic changes in the tumour cells.
• In situ hybridization: Similar to FISH, this test examines specific genetic material in the cells.
• Next-generation sequencing (NGS): An advanced test identifying mutations or other genetic alterations in the tumour.

These tests help pathologists better characterize the tumour and provide critical information for diagnosis and treatment planning.

When can a more specific diagnosis be made?

A more specific or final diagnosis can often be reached after the entire tumour is removed and examined under a microscope. This allows the pathologist to study all parts of the tumour and gather detailed information about its cells, structure, and behaviour. With this information, the pathologist can classify the tumour more precisely, which is essential for developing the most effective treatment plan.

What is the prognosis for a person diagnosed with a malignant neoplasm?

The prognosis for a malignant neoplasm depends on several factors, including the type of tumour, its size, location, grade, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. Tumours that are caught early, are smaller in size, and have not spread generally have a better prognosis.

Certain types of malignant neoplasms, such as low grade carcinomas, may grow slowly and respond well to treatment. Others, like high grade sarcomas or metastatic tumours, may behave more aggressively and require more intensive treatment.

Your pathology report provides essential information that helps your doctor predict the tumour’s behaviour and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Discussing the details of your diagnosis with your doctor is important to understanding your prognosis and the next steps in your care.