Definition

1. Noun:
   • A benign epithelial tumor of glandular origin: An 'adenoma' is a non-cancerous growth that arises from glandular tissue or epithelium. It is a type of tumor that typically forms in or resembles the structure of a gland.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The biopsy confirmed the growth was a benign adenoma.
  • Colonoscopies are often performed to screen for polyps, including adenomas.
  • Pituitary adenomas can sometimes affect hormone levels.

Advanced Usage

• Specific Types: The term is often modified to specify the location or cell type of the tumor.
  • A tubular adenoma is a common finding in the colon.
  • She was diagnosed with a pleomorphic adenoma of the salivary gland.

Variants and Related Words

• Adenomatous (adj): Pertaining to or resembling an adenoma.
  • The polyp showed adenomatous changes.
• Adenocarcinoma (n): A malignant (cancerous) tumor originating from glandular tissue. This is a distinct, more serious condition compared to a benign adenoma.

Synonyms

• Benign glandular tumor: A descriptive synonym.
• Glandular neoplasm: A more general medical term for a new growth of glandular tissue, which can be benign or malignant.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of 'adenoma' is specifically a benign tumor. While it is a growth, it is not cancerous and does not invade other tissues or metastasize.
• It is distinguished from malignant tumors like adenocarcinoma, which share a glandular origin but are cancerous.

Noun

1. a benign epithelial tumor of glandular origin