Final answer:
Malignant tumors are cancerous growths capable of invading surrounding tissues and spreading to other parts of the body, known as metastasis. They arise from DNA mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell division and can evade the body's immune system, posing significant health risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
What are Malignant Tumors?
Malignant tumors, also known as malignant neoplasms, are a type of cancerous growth that can invade and damage surrounding tissues. These tumors go beyond the primary tumor site by a process called metastasis, where cancer cells are shed into the bloodstream and can form new tumors in other parts of the body. The root cause of these tumors is often an accumulation of DNA mutations that lead to uncontrolled cell proliferation and the failure of normal apoptotic mechanisms that lead to the death of damaged or abnormal cells.
When speaking of cancer and its mechanisms, it is important to distinguish between benign and malignant tumors. Benign tumors do not invade other tissues and typically do not present a major health threat, whereas malignant tumors can cause significant harm by not only growing uncontrollably but also spreading throughout the body. As malignant tumors spread, they consume nutrients and space, impairing the function of healthy tissues and organs. If undiagnosed or untreated, they can be fatal.
The body has systems, like immune surveillance, designed to recognize and destroy cancerous cells. However, in the case of malignant tumors, these systems can be evaded, allowing the tumor to progress and potentially become a life-threatening issue. Cancer results from a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, making it a challenging disease to prevent and treat.