Negative for malignancy

The phrase negative for malignancy means that no cancer cells were seen when the tissue or cell sample was examined under the microscope. In pathology, the term malignant is used to describe cancer, so “negative for malignancy” means that the sample does not show any signs of cancer.

This result is reassuring, but it is important to understand what it means—and what it does not mean—depending on the type and size of the sample tested.

When do pathologists use this phrase?

Pathologists typically use the phrase negative for malignancy when examining small samples of tissue or cells. These may include:

• Biopsies – small pieces of tissue taken from a suspicious area.

• Fine needle aspirations (FNA) – samples made up of individual cells removed using a thin needle.

• Cytology samples – such as Pap smears or fluid samples from body cavities.

In these cases, the pathologist looks at the material under the microscope and determines whether any cancer cells are present.

Does negative for malignancy mean the area is normal?

Not necessarily. “Negative for malignancy” only means that no cancer cells were found in the sample. It does not automatically mean the tissue is normal or that there is no disease at all. Other conditions, such as inflammation, infection, or benign (non-cancerous) changes, may still be present even if the result is negative for malignancy.

Your pathology report may include additional findings such as reactive changes, atypical cells, or benign conditions, which can help explain symptoms or guide further care.

Are there limitations to this result?

Yes. Pathologists can only make a diagnosis based on the tissue or cells they receive. If the sample is too small, does not include the right area, or contains damaged or poorly preserved tissue, it may not show the full picture.

For that reason, “negative for malignancy” does not completely rule out cancer—it only means no cancer was seen in the material provided. If your doctor still suspects cancer or the symptoms continue, they may recommend:

• Repeating the biopsy or test.

• Taking a larger or deeper sample.

• Using imaging to guide a second procedure.

• Performing follow-up testing over time.

What does positive for malignancy mean?

The opposite of negative for malignancy is positive for malignancy, which means that cancer cells were seen in the sample. This diagnosis usually leads to further testing or treatment, depending on the type and location of the cancer.

Questions to ask your doctor

• What does “negative for malignancy” mean in the context of my test?

• Were there any other findings in the report besides this result?

• Was the sample large enough and from the correct area?

• Do I need any additional tests or follow-up?

• Does this result fully explain my symptoms?