## Not necessarily harmful A benign tumor can form in any part of the body when cells multiply faster than they should or when they don't die in time. It is an abnormal but not cancerous cluster of cells. Unlike malignant tumors, this type of neoplasm has clear and smooth borders and does not infiltrate nearby tissues. More often than not, such neoplasms are safe, but there are still health risks. > The most common types of benign tumors are lipoma, papilloma, myoma, nevus, and adenoma. ## What to be wary of Some benign tumors can turn into malignant tumors over time. For example, colon polyps can turn into [colon cancer](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=127), and dysplastic nevi can turn into a type of skin cancer ([melanoma](https://ul.orna.me/KOge/librarydisease?id=142)). Therefore, it is necessary to control any neoplasm. In addition, when tumors reach a certain size, ===they begin to press on adjacent tissues and organs. This results in bleeding, headaches, seizures or problems with vision or hearing (with brain tumors), loss of appetite or weight, difficulty breathing, and pain. ## To treat or not to treat Many benign tumors do not need to be treated or removed. Sometimes it is advisable to wait and observe. But in some cases, it is better to immediately start therapy or remove the neoplasm, especially if there are side effects. Each case is different, and only the doctor can determine which approach is best. After surgery to remove the tumor, it usually does not reappear. However, regular checkups will be necessary. > To find out if a tumor is benign or malignant, a biopsy, imaging tests (CT, MRI, or ultrasound), and X-rays are usually performed.