Definition

1. Noun:
   • An abnormal new mass of tissue that serves no purpose: A neoplasm is a growth of new, abnormal tissue, often forming a lump or tumor. This growth is not part of the body's normal structure or function and can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Usage

• The term "neoplasm" is a formal, medical term used by healthcare professionals. It is a neutral term that describes the abnormal growth itself, without specifying whether it is cancerous. Further tests (like a biopsy) are needed to determine if a neoplasm is benign or malignant.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The biopsy confirmed the presence of a neoplasm in the lung.
  • Not every neoplasm is cancerous; many are benign and harmless.
  • Early detection of a neoplasm can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Advanced Usage

• "Primary neoplasm": A tumor that originates at the site where it is found.
  • The primary neoplasm was in the colon.
• "Secondary neoplasm" or "metastatic neoplasm": A tumor that has spread to a new location from a primary site elsewhere in the body.
  • The liver lesions were diagnosed as secondary neoplasms.
• "Neoplastic" (adjective): Relating to or being a neoplasm.
  • The cells showed neoplastic changes under the microscope.

Variants and Related Words

• Tumor (n): A more common synonym for a mass or swelling, often used interchangeably with "neoplasm" in medical contexts, though "tumor" can sometimes refer to non-neoplastic swellings.
• Growth (n): A very general term that can refer to a neoplasm.
• Lesion (n): A broad term for any area of damaged or abnormal tissue, which can include a neoplasm.
• Oncology (n): The branch of medicine that deals with the study and treatment of neoplasms (cancers).

Synonyms

• Tumor: An abnormal mass of tissue.
• Growth: An abnormal proliferation of cells.
• Lump: A compact mass of a substance, which could be a neoplasm.

Antonyms

• Normal tissue: Healthy, standard body tissue.
• Atrophy: The wasting away or decrease in size of an organ or tissue, which is the opposite of abnormal growth.

Related Phrases / Collocations

• Benign neoplasm: A non-cancerous growth that does not invade nearby tissue or spread.
• Malignant neoplasm: A cancerous growth that can invade and destroy nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
• Neoplasm screening: Tests or exams to look for neoplasms before symptoms appear.
• Neoplasm resection: The surgical removal of a neoplasm.

Noun

1. an abnormal new mass of tissue that serves no purpose