Do not underestimate benign thyroid and breast tumors in women

Do not underestimate benign thyroid and breast tumors in women

27-02-2020
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Oncology

Complacency toward benign tumors may be life threatening, as a certain proportion of benign lesions can undergo malignant transformation, leading to cancer, one of the most significant health concerns worldwide.

The two most common tumor types in women

A tumor is defined as an abnormal proliferation of cells that grows excessively beyond normal regulatory control and may expand or invade surrounding tissues. The primary etiological factors contributing to tumor development include chronic inflammation, exposure to toxic foods, chemical agents, and ionizing radiation.

Breast tumors are a common condition among women
Breast tumors are a common condition among women

The pathogenesis of tumor formation is fundamentally linked to dysregulation of the normal cellular life cycle. Under physiological conditions, cells undergo a controlled process of growth, differentiation, and apoptosis. Senescent or damaged cells are eliminated and replaced by newly generated cells that maintain tissue structure and function. However, in certain cases, genetic mutations disrupt this balance, preventing programmed cell death while cellular proliferation continues, leading to abnormal cell accumulation and subsequent tumor formation.

Tumors may arise in virtually any anatomical site within the body. In women, however, the two most commonly encountered tumor types are breast tumors and thyroid nodules.

Do not underestimate benign tumors

The majority of tumors are benign. However, not all lesions are entirely harmless, nor can their potential for malignant transformation be excluded. Certain tumors may serve as precursors to malignancy, ultimately leading to cancer and posing a serious threat to patient survival.

In the case of thyroid nodules, approximately 5% are malignant. For breast tumors, the risk of progression to malignancy is estimated at around 0.08%. Therefore, complacency toward benign tumors is a critical mistake, particularly if one aims to safeguard long-term health.

Depending on the case, benign tumors can develop into malignant tumors
Depending on the case, benign tumors can develop into malignant tumors

Benign tumors may progress to malignant neoplasms due to multiple underlying factors, including:

If not treated in a timely manner, benign lesions may evolve through stages of cellular metaplasia, dysplasia, premalignant changes, and ultimately malignant transformation leading to cancer.

In some cases, diagnostic inaccuracies may occur, where a malignant tumor is misclassified as benign, or vice versa. Misinterpretation of a malignant lesion as benign may result in patient complacency and delayed follow-up, allowing the tumor to progress and complicating subsequent treatment.

Uncontrolled growth of benign tumors can also exert significant adverse effects on the body, including compression of nerves and adjacent organs. For instance, a thyroid mass may compress the trachea, leading to dyspnea, or obstruct nutrient supply to surrounding tissues, thereby compromising organ function and overall health status.

Not all benign tumors have the potential to become malignant. However, patients should not be complacent and are strongly advised to undergo regular medical evaluation to accurately monitor their condition and prevent possible complications.

Microwave ablation with TATO system as a leading solution for benign tumor management

To ensure optimal health protection and therapeutic efficacy, women are advised to seek definitive treatment as soon as any abnormal mass is detected, thereby minimizing the risk of potential complications.

Do not underestimate benign tumors; seek definitive treatment as soon as they are detected
Do not underestimate benign tumors; seek definitive treatment as soon as they are detected

Microwave ablation is a thermal-based technique for tumor eradication. This modality eliminates tumor tissue through localized heating at the targeted site, without causing surface burns or significant damage to adjacent healthy cells. The TATO system is indicated for benign thyroid and breast tumors, typically measuring from 1 to 3 cm.

Unlike conventional surgery, which involves complete excision of the tumor, this technique utilizes microwave energy delivered via an electrode needle, maintaining temperatures between 60 and 100°C to induce tumor destruction. The generated heat leads to dehydration of surrounding tissues, resulting in cellular necrosis of the tumor mass.

Note: The information provided is for reference purposes only.

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