Neoplastic cell

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Neoplastic Cell

A neoplastic cell is a cell that has undergone neoplasia, a process that causes the formation of an abnormal mass of tissue. The growth of this tissue, known as a neoplasm, is caused by the abnormal proliferation of cells. Neoplastic cells can form tumors, which can be benign or malignant.

Characteristics of Neoplastic Cells[edit | edit source]

Neoplastic cells exhibit several distinct characteristics that differentiate them from normal cells. These include:

  • Uncontrolled Growth: Neoplastic cells have the ability to grow and divide in an unregulated manner. This is due to mutations in the genes that control cell growth and division.
  • Immortality: Unlike normal cells, which have a limited lifespan, neoplastic cells can continue to divide indefinitely. This is due to the activation of telomerase, an enzyme that prevents the shortening of telomeres.
  • Invasiveness: Neoplastic cells can invade surrounding tissues and organs, a characteristic that is particularly associated with malignant tumors.
  • Metastasis: Some neoplastic cells have the ability to spread from the original site of the tumor to other parts of the body. This process, known as metastasis, is a key feature of cancer.

Types of Neoplastic Cells[edit | edit source]

Neoplastic cells can be classified into two main types: benign and malignant.

  • Benign Neoplastic Cells: These cells form tumors that are non-invasive and do not spread to other parts of the body. They are usually encapsulated and grow slowly.
  • Malignant Neoplastic Cells: These cells form tumors that are invasive and can spread to other parts of the body. They grow rapidly and often have irregular shapes.

Diagnosis and Treatment[edit | edit source]

The diagnosis of neoplastic cells is usually made through a combination of imaging studies, such as MRI or CT scan, and laboratory tests, including biopsy and cytology. The treatment of neoplastic cells depends on the type and stage of the neoplasm, and may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies.

See Also[edit | edit source]



WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD