What defines a benign tumor?

A benign tumor is defined primarily by its behavior in relation to surrounding tissues. Specifically, it does not invade nearby tissues or organs, which distinguishes it from malignant tumors that tend to invade and destroy adjacent structures. This characteristic is significant because benign tumors generally do not pose the same level of threat to overall health as malignant tumors do. They may still cause problems by occupying space or producing hormones, but they typically remain localized and can often be surgically removed if necessary.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of benign tumors. For example, while malignant tumors are known for aggressive spreading, benign tumors are characterized by their stability and limited growth. Additionally, benign tumors do not inherently cause significant harm, although they can lead to complications depending on their size and location. Finally, benign tumors can vary greatly in size and are not typically larger than malignant tumors; size alone does not determine their classification as benign or malignant.