Southlake, TX – February 24, 2020–Tumors are abnormal lumps of tissue that occur when cells divide uncontrollably in the body. They can be cancerous or not. Healthy cells in the body will grow, divide, and replace one another. The old cells will die, and new ones will form. In cancer, new cells will form when the body does not need them. Too many of them will cause a tumor to develop.

“Tumors develop as cells reproduce at a rapid rate,” saysDr. Tower. “They vary in size and can develop in any part of the body. Some tumors are benign, indicating that they are not cancerous while malignant tumors cause cancer, which can spread to other body organs."

Here are different types of tumors found in cancer patients:

• Benign tumors – Benign tumors are not cancerous. They will not grow or spread, and if they do, they progress slowly. If they are removed, they will not return. But they can cause pain or disrupt the normal function of the blood vessels or nerves if they press against them. Examples of benign tumors include adenomas, fibroids, hemangiomas, and lipomas.

• Premalignant tumors – Premalignant tumors are not cancerous, but they may become cancerous afterward. They need close monitoring to know when they change. Premalignant tumors include cervical dysplasia, actinic keratosis, metaplasia of the lung, and leukoplakia.

• Malignant tumors – Malignant tumors are cancerous and may grow and spread to other body organs. They can be life-threatening when they become metastatic. Examples of malignant tumors include carcinomas, sarcomas, germ cell tumors, and blastomas.

“To diagnose tumors, doctors may recommend MRI scans,” saysDr.Tower. “Some tumors will not show while others can be detected through imaging tests. Sometimes a biopsy is needed to determine the type of tumor and recommend an appropriate treatment. Routine checks can help diagnose tumors early when they are treatable.”

About Southlake Oncology

Southlake Oncology, located in the Southlake and Grapevine area is a community-focused oncology practice that delivers exceptional care to North Texas cancer patients with a variety of cancer diagnoses and blood disorders. Like the other Choice Cancer Care facilities, we are an independent treatment center that is physician-owned.

Visit: https://southlakeoncology.com/physician-profile/dr-amelia-tower/