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Malignancy

The term malignancy refers to the presence of cancerous cells that have the ability to spread to other sites in the body (metastasize) or to invade nearby (locally) and destroy tissues. Malignant cells tend to have fast, uncontrolled growth and do not die normally due to changes in their genetic makeup.

Malignant cells that are resistant to treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may return after all detectable traces of them have been removed or destroyed.

Review Date: 8/21/2024

Reviewed By

Warren Brenner, MD, Oncologist, Lynn Cancer Institute, Boca Raton, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

References

National Cancer Institute website. NCI dictionary of cancer terms. www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/malignancy. Accessed August 28, 2024.

Park BH. Cancer biology and genetics. In: Goldman L, Cooney KA, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 27th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2024:chap 166.

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Lymphoma, malignant - CT scan - Illustration Thumbnail

Lymphoma, malignant - CT scan

This abdominal CT scan shows tumor masses (malignant lymphomas) in the area behind the peritoneal cavity (retroperitoneal space).

Illustration

Malignancy - Illustration Thumbnail

Malignancy

Malignancy refers to cells that are cancerous. Malignant cells may spread from their primary cancer source. This is called metastatic cancer.

Illustration

 
 
Lymphoma, malignant - CT scan - Illustration Thumbnail

Lymphoma, malignant - CT scan

This abdominal CT scan shows tumor masses (malignant lymphomas) in the area behind the peritoneal cavity (retroperitoneal space).

Illustration

Malignancy - Illustration Thumbnail

Malignancy

Malignancy refers to cells that are cancerous. Malignant cells may spread from their primary cancer source. This is called metastatic cancer.

Illustration

 
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