Benign vs Malignant Tumours
Part of Cancer and Cell Division Control — GCSE Biology
This comparison covers Benign vs Malignant Tumours within Cancer and Cell Division Control for GCSE Biology. Cancer development, cell cycle control mechanisms, tumor formation, risk factors, prevention methods, and treatment approaches It is section 9 of 18 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 9 of 18
Practice
18 questions
Recall
22 flashcards
Benign vs Malignant Tumours
| Characteristic | Benign Tumour | Malignant Tumour |
|---|---|---|
| Growth rate | Slow, controlled | Rapid, uncontrolled |
| Capsule | Enclosed in a fibrous capsule | No capsule — irregular, invasive edges |
| Cell appearance | Similar to normal cells | Abnormal, varied shapes |
| Spreading (local) | Stays in one location | Invades surrounding tissues |
| Metastasis (distant) | Does not spread to distant sites | Can spread through blood/lymph |
| Danger level | Usually low — but can press on organs | High — disrupts multiple organ systems |
| Treatment | Usually surgical removal | Complex: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy |
| Prognosis | Generally good | Depends on stage and type |